Snapshots of History
By Mike Avitt I photographed this week’s picture from A. T. Andreas’ Illustrated Historical Atlas of the State of Iowa (1875) and this is the earliest town plat of Mount Ayr I’ve ever seen. There are a few changes since then and I’ll point them out. North Street is called Columbus Street today and this…
Read MoreLOOKING BACK in the Early Files
One Hundred Years Ago (From the Mount Ayr Record-News, Thursday, August 26, 1925.) Saturday was circus day in Mount Ayr and the town was thronged with visitors from early morning until late at night. Before the sun appeared a crowd gathered at the station to await the arrival of the Robbins Brothers circus train, due to…
Read MoreTingley ice cream social winners announced
By Jennifer Kellner Fair weather drew a content crowd to the Tingley Ice Cream Social last Sunday. The Ringgold County Cattlemen’s Association grilled burgers and served them with chips and a drink, and ice cream samples were enjoyed along with a slice of pie after the winners of each contest were announced. The Tingley vanilla…
Read MoreSmall town philanthropist
By Darrell Dodge Philanthropy can be defined as the practice of giving one’s time, talent, and treasure to make life better for others. We often read headlines about grand gestures of philanthropy – a wealthy benefactor builds a library or funds efforts to combat disease or promotes early childhood literacy. Philanthropy, however, goes far beyond…
Read MorePersonnel change at City Hall
By Jennifer Kellner The Mount Ayr City Council approved the removal of Niccole Swank as Deputy City Clerk, a rental housing progression plan and a downtown work session at their regular meeting Monday, August 25. Personnel change A special meeting was held on Thursday, August 21 to evaluate the professional competency of an individual and…
Read MoreObituary: Cindy Baker
Cindy Baker (1949-2025) Cindy Baker, of Clearfield, Iowa, passed away peacefully on August 13, 2025, at the age of 76. Born Cynthia Jean Gordon in Des Moines, Iowa, to Dr. Marvin Gordon and Jean Francis (Slocum) Gordon on January 16, 1949, Cindy was the eldest of four sisters, including Kathy, Connie, and Christie. She spent…
Read MoreObituary: Richard Hammond, Jr.
Richard “Dick” Hammond, Jr. (1946-2025) Richard “Dick” Hammond, Jr., 76, of Creston, formerly of Diagonal passed away Saturday August 16, 2025, at his home surrounded by his family. Celebration of Life Memorial Services will be 2:30 p.m. Tuesday, August 19, 2025, at Powers Funeral Home in Creston. The service will be live streamed. Theodore J.…
Read MoreSnapshots of History
By Mike Avitt I was looking at the history of Gentry, Missouri and I was reminded of the unusual path (literally and figuratively) the Chicago, Burlington, & Quincy RR took in reaching St. Joseph, Mo. from Chariton, Iowa. Let’s see if I can get the entire history in one article. The Burlington & Missouri River…
Read MoreLOOKING BACK in the Early Files
One Hundred Years Ago (From the Mount Ayr Record-News, Thursday, August 19, 1925.) Brief mention was made last week of the receipt of a telegram Wednesday conveying the information that 60 head of steers shipped by W.P. Turner and sons of Lotts Creek township, were sold that day at $16.10 per cwt. This is reported the…
Read MoreWimers welcomed into Iowa 4-H Hall of Fame
Recognized for Everyday Impact DES MOINES, IA – The Iowa State Fair Everyday Impact Award recognizes individuals who go above and beyond to make a positive impact during the fair. These awards highlight acts of kindness, helpfulness, and going the extra mile to enhance the fair experience for others. Mike Wimer, who has served on…
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