Emmet County, Iowa
Emmet County sits along Iowa’s northern edge, bordering Minnesota. Estherville, the county seat, has a truly out-of-this-world claim to fame. In 1879, a meteor exploded over the area, scattering fragments across the surrounding countryside.
The Des Moines River flows through the county and also passes through Estherville. Emmet County also has a strong railroad history, with Estherville historically serving as an important transportation hub.
The county is also home to Fort Defiance State Park, a wooded area featuring hiking trails and a rich history dating back to the frontier era. Several lakes can be found throughout the county, including the popular Ingham Lake and High Lake.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | Emmet County |
| County Seat | Estherville |
| Population | 10,500 |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Estherville, Armstrong, Dolliver, Ringsted, Swan Lake, Maple Hill, Gruver |
| Interstates and Highways | U.S. Highway 9, U.S. Highway 71, Iowa Highway 4 |
| FIPS Code | 19-063 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 620 square miles (land: 610 sq mi, water: 10 sq mi) |
| Adjacent Counties (and Direction) | Jackson County, Minnesota (Northwest), Martin County, Minnesota (Northeast), Kossuth County (East), Palo Alto County (South), Dickinson County (West) |
| Time Zone | Central Time Zone (CST) |
| State | Iowa |
| Coordinates | 43.41°N, 94.73°W |
| Etymology | Named after Robert Emmet, an Irish patriot |
| Major Landmarks | The Historic Ocheyedan River, Five Island Lake, Ringsted Golf Club |
