Learn About Iola, Kansas

Iola Overview

City History

• Iola is a city located in Allen County, Kansas, USA. It was founded in 1859 by settlers from Iola, Wisconsin, who named the town after their hometown.
• Iola quickly grew as a center for trade and commerce in the region, thanks to its location on the Neosho River and the Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railroad.
• Throughout its history, Iola has been known for its strong sense of community and its commitment to preserving its historic buildings and landmarks.

Interesting Facts

• Iola is home to the oldest continuously-operating community theater in the state of Kansas, the Bowlus Fine Arts Center.
• The city is also known for its annual Farm City Days festival, which celebrates the agricultural heritage of the region.
• Iola was the setting for the 2007 film "The Final Season," which tells the story of the final season of the high school baseball team before the school consolidated with a neighboring town.

Interesting People

• Harry H. Woodring, who served as the Governor of Kansas and as the Secretary of War under President Franklin D. Roosevelt, was born in Iola.
• Author and journalist William Allen White, known for his editorials in the Emporia Gazette, spent part of his childhood in Iola.

Top Attractions in Iola

• Bowlus Fine Arts Center - a cultural hub offering performances, art exhibits, and educational programs.
• Restored downtown buildings - take a stroll through Iola's historic downtown and admire the beautifully restored buildings.
• Southwind Rail Trail - a scenic trail for walking, running, and biking that follows the route of a former railroad line.

Top Attractions Nearby

• Chanute - a nearby city with a rich aviation history, featuring the Martin and Osa Johnson Safari Museum.
• Wilson State Park - a popular spot for camping, fishing, and boating on the shores of Wilson Lake.

Population History

• According to the latest census data, the population of Iola is around 5,700 residents.
• The city has seen steady growth in recent years, thanks in part to its strong economy and quality of life.

Geography

• Iola is located in southeast Kansas, about 95 miles south of Topeka, the state capital.
• The city is surrounded by rolling hills, forests, and farmland, making it a picturesque place to live and visit.

Economy

• Iola's economy is driven by agriculture, manufacturing, and healthcare industries.
• The city is home to a number of small businesses, as well as larger employers like the Iola Industries industrial park.

Culture

• Iola has a rich cultural scene, with a variety of arts and entertainment venues, including the Bowlus Fine Arts Center and the Iola Community Theater.
• The city also hosts a number of annual events and festivals that celebrate its history and heritage.

Notable Landmarks

• Old Allen County Courthouse - a historic building that now houses the Allen County Historical Society Museum.
• Madison Avenue Bridge - a picturesque bridge that spans the Neosho River and offers stunning views of the surrounding area.

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