Jasper County, Iowa
Jasper County is where city life meets the country. Newton serves as the county seat and was once known as the “Washing Machine Capital of the World.” How’s that for a claim to fame?
These days, the county is better known for its connection to NASCAR and the Iowa Speedway. With a population of around 38,000, Jasper County has plenty of activity to keep things lively.
Mariposa Recreation Area offers a peaceful break from the hustle and bustle, while the Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge gives visitors a glimpse of what Iowa looked like before all those cornfields took over.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | Jasper County |
| County Seat | Newton |
| Etymology | Named after William Jasper, a hero of the American Revolution |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Newton, Colfax, Prairie City, Monroe, Baxter, Kellogg, Reasnor, Mingo |
| Interstates and Highways | Interstate 80, U.S. Highway 6, Iowa Highway 14 |
| FIPS Code | 19-099 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 730 square miles (land: 728 sq mi, water: 2 sq mi) |
| Adjacent Counties (and Direction) | Marshall County (North), Poweshiek County (East), Mahaska County (Southeast), Marion County (South), Polk County (West), Story County (Northwest) |
| Time Zone | Central Time Zone (CST) |
| Population | 38,000 |
| State | Iowa |
| Coordinates | 41.70°N, 93.05°W |
| Major Landmarks | Newton Speedway, Jasper County Historical Museum, Lake Red Rock, Newton Arboretum and Botanical Gardens |
