Hancock County, Iowa
Hancock County is located in north-central Iowa and has an almost perfect square shape. Garner serves as the county seat and anchors the area.
This rural county is known for its strong agricultural roots. Grains, oilseeds, livestock—you’ll find it all here. U.S. Highways 18 and 69 run through the county, providing access to the surrounding farms.
But agriculture isn’t the only attraction here. Pilot Knob State Park is known for its scenic trails and historic observation tower and is a favorite spot for many travelers. There’s also the Eagle Lake State Wildlife Management Area, an important stopover for migratory birds.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | Hancock County |
| County Seat | Garner |
| Etymology | Named after John Hancock, a signatory of the Declaration of Independence |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Garner, Britt, Klemme, Corwith, Kanawha, Hayfield, Goodell |
| Interstates and Highways | U.S. Highway 18, U.S. Highway 69, Iowa Highway 9 |
| FIPS Code | 19-081 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 576 square miles (land: 573 sq mi, water: 3 sq mi) |
| Adjacent Counties (and Direction) | Winnebago County (North), Cerro Gordo County (East), Wright County (South), Kossuth County (West) |
| Time Zone | Central Time Zone (CST) |
| Population | 11,000 |
| State | Iowa |
| Coordinates | 43.10°N, 93.63°W |
| Major Landmarks | Garner Historic District, Britt Windmill Museum, Clear Lake Wildlife Area |
