O’Brien County, Iowa
O’Brien County is located in northwest Iowa. It’s a rural area with a strong farming community. Primghar serves as the county seat and is known for its unique, historic courthouse.
Things may be a little quiet here, but agriculture remains the backbone of the county. The Prairie Heritage Center offers a glimpse into the region’s natural history, with exhibits and trails overlooking the Little Sioux River.
U.S. Highways 18 and 59 run through the county, providing easy access to Sanborn, Hartley, and Calumet. O’Brien County is a place where the landscape reflects a simpler, hardworking way of life. It’s a peaceful stop in the heart of Iowa.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | O’Brien County |
| County Seat | Primghar |
| Etymology | Named in honor of a prominent local figure, William Smith O’Brien |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Primghar, Sheldon, Sanborn, Hartley, and several smaller communities |
| Interstates and Highways | U.S. Highway 18, U.S. Highway 59, Iowa Highway 9 |
| FIPS Code | 19-141 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 573 square miles (land: 572 sq mi, water: 1 sq mi) |
| Adjacent Counties (and Direction) | Osceola County (North), Clay County (East), Cherokee County (South), Sioux County (West) |
| Time Zone | Central Time Zone (CST) |
| Population | 15,000 |
| State | Iowa |
| Coordinates | 43.14°N, 95.55°W |
| Major Landmarks | Prairie Heritage Center, Sheldon Historical Museum, and Hartley Historical Society Museum |
