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Fort Madison, IA

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Fort Madison, IA

Fort Madison is a city and a county seat of Lee County, Iowa, United States along with Keokuk. Of Iowa's 99 counties, Lee County is the only one with two county seats. The population was 10,270 at the time of the 2020 census. Located along the Mississippi River in the state's southeast corner, it lies between small bluffs along one of the widest portions of the river.

Fort Madison was founded as the location of the first U.S. military fort in the upper Mississippi region. A replica of the fort stands along the river. Sheaffer Pens were developed and made in Fort Madison for many years. The city is the location of the Iowa State Penitentiary—the state's maximum security prison for men. Fort Madison is the Mississippi River crossing and station stop for Amtrak's Southwest Chief. Fort Madison has one of two remaining double swing-span bridges on the Mississippi River, the Fort Madison Toll Bridge, the other being the Government Bridge in Rock Island, Illinois. It has a top level for cars and a similar level for trains; it is also the world's largest.

The Fort Madison Downtown Commercial Historic District is a collection of well-preserved historic storefronts from the late 19th century. Along with this is the Park-to-Park Residential Historic District. The Historic Park to Park District is a seven-block long, three-block wide section of homes that represent the Gothic, Victorian, and Tudor eras. With a rich variety of architectural styles like Gothic Revival, Italianate, Second Empire, Eastlake Stick, Richardson Romanesque, Queen Anne, and Tudor. With two of the six parks within the District. It is on the National Historic Registry.

The city of Fort Madison was established around the site of the historic Fort Madison (1808–1813), which was the first permanent U.S. military fortification on the Upper Mississippi. Fort Madison was the site of Black Hawk's first battle against U.S. troops, the only real War of 1812 battle fought west of the Mississippi. It was also the location of the first U.S. military cemetery in the upper Midwest. The fort was named for James Madison, the fourth President of the United States.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 13.23 square miles (34.27 km²), of which 9.49 square miles (24.58 km²) is land and 3.74 square miles (9.69 km²) is water. Fort Madison is famous for the Tri-State Rodeo, RiverFest, Mexican Fiesta, Balloons Over the Mississippi, Art in Central Park, and Annual Lighted Parade.

Health and wellness are prioritized in Fort Madison, with Great River Health playing a crucial role in providing healthcare services to residents. The hospital offers a range of medical facilities and services, ensuring the well-being of the community. Fort Madison also boasts parks and recreational areas, promoting an active and healthy lifestyle. Riverview Park, situated along the Mississippi River, provides a picturesque setting for outdoor activities and community events. The Fort Madison Recreation Trail is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, offering scenic routes for walking, running, and biking along the Mississippi River. Fort Madison Area Art Association provides a tranquil space for yoga classes, focusing on mindfulness and physical health. Sheaffer Memorial Golf Course combines fitness with leisure, featuring a challenging course for golfers of all skill levels. Fort Madison's parks, such as Central Park and Old Settlers Park, host various fitness events and provide ample space for outdoor activities. Additionally, local wellness workshops and health fairs frequently take place, promoting healthy living and community engagement. Together, these facilities and programs make Fort Madison a vibrant center for health and wellness, catering to diverse interests and fitness needs.

The top Sites in Fort Madison, IA are Old Fort Madison, Canine Corral Dog Park, North Lee County Historical Society, and Fort Madison Area Arts Association.

Population: 10,134 (2022). ZIP Code: 52627. Area code: 319. Elevation: 525 ft (160 m). Area: 13.24 sq mi (34.29 km²).

FAQs

What is Fort Madison, IA famous for?

Fort Madison is one of two county seats for North Lee County, which is the only county in the state with two separate seats of government. Fort Madison is also known as Iowa's oldest Mexican settlement due to its railroad roots and is now home to various Latino holidays and traditions including the annual Mexican Fiesta.  The community is also home to the famous Tri-State Rodeo, which is today known as the best rodeo within the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association's Great Lake Circuit.

What is the crime rate in Fort Madison, IA?

The crime rate in Fort Madison is considerably higher than the national average across all communities in America from the largest to the smallest, although at 24 crimes per one thousand residents, it is not among the communities with the very highest crime rate. The chance of becoming a victim of either violent or property crime in Fort Madison is 1 in 42. Based on FBI crime data, Fort Madison is not one of the safest communities in America. Relative to Iowa, Fort Madison has a crime rate that is higher than 95% of the state's cities and towns of all sizes.

Is Fort Madison, IA a good place to live?

New residents of Fort Madison will find a community that values its historical roots while embracing the present and looking toward the future. Life here is characterized by a friendly, welcoming atmosphere, where neighbors come together to celebrate local traditions, support one another, and contribute to the city's continued growth and vibrancy. With its blend of historical charm, economic stability, and natural beauty, Fort Madison offers a living experience that is both enriching and fulfilling, making it not just a place to live, but a place to thrive.

Sources

Wikipedia

City of Fort Madison

Travel Iowa

Neighborhood Scout

Best Places

Great River Health

Riverview Park

Fort Madison Area Art Association

Sheaffer Memorial Golf Course

Old Settlers Park

Old Fort Madison 

Canine Corral Dog Park 

North Lee County Historical Society 

Fort Madison Area Arts Association

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