This 1896 image shows what the coal mining operation looked like in Colon, Iowa. Colon, located south of Oskaloosa in Mahaska County, was another town that went from a thriving community to nonexistence in a matter of a few years. Today, the only…
James Nelson was the youngest son of revered farmer and pioneer, Daniel Nelson, of Oskaloosa, Iowa, in Mahaska County. James endured many of the same hardships as his father when first coming to Iowa, helping his father with chores associated with…
In 1869, Jefferson School was erected to serve the children residing in the Second Ward of Oskaloosa. This is a photograph taken of the school in 1896, at which time the building administator was Milo Hunt. Teachers on staff included: Floy…
John Nelson was the second oldest son of revered farmer and pioneer, Daniel Nelson, of Oskaloosa, Iowa, in Mahaska County. John endured many of the same hardships as his father when first coming to Iowa, helping his father with chores associated…
In 1876, Lincoln school was erected to serve the children residing in the First Ward of Oskaloosa. This is a photograph taken of the school in 1896, at which time P.L. Kindig served as the building's principal. Teachers on staff included Alcina…
This is a picture of what 1st Avenue looked like in 1896, Oskaloosa, Iowa. Note that the street has not been paved yet and wouldn't for over ten more years.
This is a picture of what 3rd Avenue looked like in 1896, Oskaloosa, Iowa. Note that the street has not been paved yet and wouldn't for over ten more years. Also note the homes in the picture and how many homes like this are still inhabited today…
This 1896 image shows the coal mining operation going on at Lost Creek, Iowa, located near Eddyville in Mahaska County. Lost Creek is the site of one of the deadliest coal mining explosions in history. On Friday, January 24, 1902, around noon, 67…
Religion has always played a very important role in Mahaska County, Iowa. One of the credits to the county has been its people's tolerance for others to worship freely without fear. Pictured here is the key to the picture showing a gathering of the…
Religion has always played a very important role in Mahaska County, Iowa. One of the credits to the county has been its people's tolerance for others to worship freely without fear. Pictured is a gathering of the church members from the Fairview…
