Decorah history began about 470 million years ago. A meteor as big as a city block crashed into Earth way before humans were around to feel the impact, leaving a crater four miles wide under the surface of the planet at the site the city now occupies.
The city isn't really affected by the Decorah Impact Structure, and nothing is really visible on the surface, but it's a topic of conversation in scientific circles, and it has been confirmed by geological research that still continues today
Decorah history began about 470 million years ago. A meteor as big as a city block crashed into Earth way before humans were around to feel the impact, leaving a crater four miles wide under the surface of the planet at the site the city now occupies.
The city isn't really affected by the Decorah Impact Structure, and nothing is really visible on the surface, but it's a topic of conversation in scientific circles, and it has been confirmed by geological research that still continues today. Who knows what other wonders will be found in Decorah.
Moving to Decorah
Relocating to this city will land you in a town of just over 8,000 people -- at the time of the 2010 U.S. Census -- that was named after and occupied by Winnebago Indians until 1848. Waukon Decorah, a Winnebago, was a U.S. ally during the Blackhawk War of 1832. Decorah and Waukon, another town just to the east, proudly claimed his names.
Weather-wise, there are four seasons here - summers are hot and winters are cold. Winter here is shorter than in some other parts of Iowa and usually has less snow. That's a good thing.
References and deposits are required if you're looking to rent. City services are good, and utilities are reasonable, but pets may be a problem in some places, as is smoking. You can walk or ride your bike around town, and you'll enjoy the city's parks, but don't give up your car.
Local Neighborhoods
Although Decorah has three identifiable neighborhoods, only two have any apartments.
City Center / Luther College: Begin your search here for city apartments, furnished apartments or rental condos in Decorah. It's also the primary neighborhood for meeting people, with a popular bookstore / coffee shop at the end of Main St., a Mediterranean bistro called La Rana, and a renovated downtown.
Montgomery St. / Route 9: This neighborhood is primarily detached homes, but you'll also find 1 bedroom apartments for rent in small buildings, premier apartments, and some townhouses. If you need a large space, check this area for rental homes as well -- some have as many as five bedrooms.
Ossian / Castalia: This is a large area of farmland that lies east and south of town. Families have lived in these historic homes for generations, and it's very peaceful in this sparsely populated, typical Iowa farmland.
Living in Decorah
Decorah is proud of its Norwegian heritage and culture and Vesterheim Museum is the largest museum in the country devoted to a single immigrant group. Today, there's a diverse mix of people in this progressive town, and community spirit is alive and well here.
People love Decorah. It's Iowa. It's real. It's friendly. There may not be a lot of exciting, adventurous things to do, but there are plenty of local festivals, get-togethers, potlucks and performances. The college is known for its music program, so there are numerous concerts and cultural events - and they attract crowds.
Within walking distance of downtown, you can find almost anything you're looking for--a renovated historic hotel, a restaurant and taproom, a natural food co-op, and even a chick hatchery. Does it get any better than that?
