Mahaska County, Iowa
Mahaska County is located in southeastern Iowa and is named after Chief Mahaska of the Ioway tribe. Its rich soil supports a strong agricultural industry, particularly corn and soybean production.
Oskaloosa, the county seat, hosts the annual Sweet Corn Serenade festival, serving free sweet corn to thousands of visitors. William Penn University, a Quaker-founded school, is also located in Oskaloosa.
The Nelson Pioneer Farm Museum offers a glimpse into 19th-century Iowa farm life. Lake Keomah State Park provides a peaceful setting for fishing and picnicking. It’s a beautiful place to relax and cast a line.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | Mahaska County |
| County Seat | Oskaloosa |
| Etymology | Named after Chief Mahaska |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Oskaloosa, Beacon, Eddyville, University Park, and several unincorporated communities |
| Interstates and Highways | U.S. Highway 63, Iowa Highway 92, Iowa Highway 163 |
| FIPS Code | 19-123 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 571 square miles (land: 569 sq mi, water: 2 sq mi) |
| Adjacent Counties (and Direction) | Jasper County (Northwest), Poweshiek County (North), Keokuk County (East), Wapello County (Southeast), Monroe County (Southwest), Marion County (West) |
| Time Zone | Central Time Zone (CST) |
| Population | 23,200 |
| State | Iowa |
| Coordinates | 41.30°N, 92.64°W |
| Major Landmarks | Oskaloosa’s Historic Courthouse, Mahaska County Historical Society Museum, and the Red Rock Reservoir |
