Madison County, Iowa
Madison County, located in central Iowa, is best known for its iconic covered bridges, the same ones that inspired the novel and movie “The Bridges of Madison County.”
Winterset serves as the county seat and is home to these historic bridges, each with its own unique story. Winterset is also the birthplace of John Wayne, and there’s even a museum here dedicated to the legendary actor.
The county is just a short drive from Des Moines via Interstate 35. It was named after James Madison, the fourth President of the United States.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | Madison County |
| County Seat | Winterset |
| Etymology | Named after James Madison, fourth President of the United States |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Winterset, Earlham, St. Charles, Patterson, Macksburg, and several unincorporated communities |
| Interstates and Highways | U.S. Highway 169, Iowa Highway 92, Iowa Highway 188 |
| FIPS Code | 19-121 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 560 square miles (land: 558 sq mi, water: 2 sq mi) |
| Adjacent Counties (and Direction) | Dallas County (North), Warren County (East), Clarke County (Southeast), Union County (Southwest), Adair County (West), Polk County (Northeast) |
| Time Zone | Central Time Zone (CST) |
| Population | 18,400 |
| State | Iowa |
| Coordinates | 41.33°N, 94.03°W |
| Major Landmarks | Covered Bridges of Madison County, Winterset City Park, and the John Wayne Birthplace Museum |
