Meow: Cat got your tongue? This town is a feline-renowned location. Dewey Readmore Books was popular world-wide as the town's library cat. He has his own book, Dewey the Small Town Library Cat Who Touched the World. How purr-fect is that?
The county seat of Clay County located right at the confluence of both the Little Sioux and Ocheyedan Rivers, Spencer is renowned as the home of the Clay County Fair. During this September event, more than 300,000 visitors flock to the town for the mix of fun food, carnival rides and agricultural exhibits. When the fair's not in town, the population is a far more sedate 11,000 plus.
Moving to Spencer
Looking for month-to-month rentals, rental houses, rental apartments or duplexes for rent in Spencer, IA? Then you should allow yourself a month to explore options online, in the local paper or by searching the community in person, on foot or by car. When you find the right place for you, be sure to come equipped with the information most landlords require: a credit report and your identification.
Neighborhoods
Feeling like you need an expansive area where you won't hear your neighbors' stereo in the wee hours of the morning? Want to stargaze at skies devoid of light pollution? Then Spencer, IA has some neighborhoods you'll enjoy. The first house in town was built in 1866, but many more have sprung up since then.
Dickens / Gillett Grove: Considered remote based on its sparse population, this neighborhood is peaceful and quiet, with single-family homes and mobile homes, and a mix of renters and owners. Some homes are historic here, having been built before 1939. This community is considered one of the least densely populated areas in the U.S. The Little Sioux River runs through this part of the community.
Spencer City Center: Suburban by population, you'll find single-family homes, apartment complexes and a mix of older homes built from 1940 to 1969 in this community, along with newer properties built between 1970 and 1999. Both owners and renters abound in this area, along with shops and restaurants.
Life in Spencer
Spencer was rated the 10th best place to live in the United States by Relocate-America.com. Entertainment is hardly lacking here. The Parker Historical Museum, lively public art displays and the beautiful glass works of the Bogenrief Glass Studio are all well regarded. There are many galleries and exhibits for local area artists in town, too. This small town is rich in art and natural beauty.
Spencer's downtown business district is on the National Register of Historic Places. Community spirit is strong, with a revitalized former school building now containing a senior citizen center, affordable housing and a restored classic front. The Grand Avenue Bridge was recently renovated in high art deco style.
One of the nation's largest auto supply chains is located here -- and its founder is from the community, too. There's a small airport serving the community as well.
Finally, Lovely Spirit Lake is just a short drive away. Isn't that lovely?