Douds Historical Preservation 50 Anniversary Tour

The Douds Historical Preservation Association, Inc. of Douds, Iowa will be hosting a 50th anniversary open house celebration on Sunday, July 21 from 1-4 p.m. The association was founded and incorporated on July 22, 1974 and presently owns and maintains four historic properties. There is no admission charge for this event.

The properties are the 1907 Douds Depot in Douds, the 1928 Valley No. 3 Country School in Leando, the 1872 Oak Grove No. 8 Country School in Lick Creek Twp (5818 Iowa Oak Grove Ave, Douds) and the 1892 Mt. Moriah M.E. Church (4889 120th St, Douds). A fifth property has been added as a bonus. The 1895 Oak Grove Church owned by Oak Grove Church Inc will be open for viewing. It is adjacent to the Oak Grove School.

Each of the four locations belonging to the Douds Historical Preservation Association will award a $50 cash prize. Register for the drawing at each location. If the stars align correctly, you could be the winner of $200 if you visit all the sites. During the open house hours, Ice cream and pie will be served at Yates Park next to the Douds Depot Museum. Only the Depot and Valley School locations will have modern restrooms available.

Did you know that Iowa has “Twin Cities”? Douds and Leando are referred to as Van Buren County’s “Twin Cities.” Leando was settled in the 1830s. Douds was platted about 30 years later but never incorporated. It does however have its own ZIP code and a Post Office. The two communities are separated by the Des Moines River. From 1830 to 1990 there was no buying or selling intoxicating liquor in Douds. The two towns were great rivals until the river bridge was built in 1898. Today the two cities have joined and are regarded as one community, Douds. Douds is home to the largest underground limestone mine in the state. It still operates today as Douds Stone, Inc.

Don’t miss this rare opportunity to see five historic sites in one afternoon.