US POST OFFICE
The present post office was built in 1913 and succeded a series of post offices
located all over town. Initially, Iowa Falls residents got their mail in Marietta
or Cedar Falls. However, in 1857, the first post office was established following
the awarding of the stage line to the city of Iowa Falls. There was a fierce competition
for these lines as they preceeded railroads, hotels, etc. Nearby Hardin City wanted
the stage line too, but was hemmed in by hills. The townspeople were told if they
could cut a passable way out, they could have the stage line. All members of the
community were to participate in the effort, but instead of a kick off breakfast for
the citizens, a barrel of whiskey was procured. The result was the whisky was
consumed and the road was no built. Iowa Falls got the stage line, railroads, hotels
AND the post office. This building is reminiscent of Monticello, the home of
Thomas Jefferson in Virginia. It is a 1914 version of Georgian Revival/Federal
architecture with Tuscan columns. Note also the terra swangs - with impressive detail
work above the windows. It was built at a cost of $46,800.The home of Jason and Sarah
Estes, a founding family, originally stood on the site.
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