Page Contents for Holstein, Iowa

Statistics & Facts

History & History-related items

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Statistics & Facts

The Iowa state capital is Des Moines.
The population of Holstein is approximately 1,449 (1990), 1396 (2010).
The approximate number of families is 647 (1990), 616 (2010).
The amount of land area in Holstein is 3.746 sq. kilometers.
The amount of surface water is 0.019 sq kilometers.
The distance from Holstein to Washington DC is 1046 miles.
The distance to the Iowa state capital is 119 miles. (as the crow flies)
Holstein is positioned 42.48 degrees north of the equator and 95.54 degrees west of the prime meridian.

History & History Related Items

November 10 1882 - the initial lots in Holstein were sold and the town platted. The first train had finally arrived that fall and vital transportation would now be available.

In 1879, Mr. and Mrs. Henry Thielmann had purchased prairie land in Ida County one mile east and one mile north from the present town of Holstein. At this location a combination saloon, blacksmith shop, and dance hall was built. This area was widely known as the "German Settlement." As it was halfway between Ida Grove, Iowa and Cherokee, Iowa, it became a favorite stopping place for travelers, and while the railroad was being built, the Thielmanns often boarded 30-40 railroad men. Mr. Thielmann also sold land.

In 1882, the railroad was completed through the area. The depot was to be built two miles from the "German Settlement," so the town was platted with First Street running parallel with the railroad. Jochim Thode became the first mayor of Holstein and also suggested the name "Holstein" in honor of the province in Germany that had been the homeland for so many of the residents of the new town. From the Holstein Centennial Book 1882 - 1992
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