Public Wholesale WSD 5

Public Wholesale WSD 5 Municipal Water Report Information

In January 1859, pioneering settlers gathered to establish a new town in what would become Iola. Many residents from Allen County and nearby communities like Cofachique and Humboldt sought to relocate the county seat. After deliberation, they named the settlement "Iola" to honor Iola Colborn, wife of J.F. Colborn who built the area's first frame house.

The land was carefully surveyed with broad streets and a four-square downtown plan. By 1860, two general stores relocated from Cofachique to Iola. Soon after, the community welcomed a dry goods store, grocery, clothing shop, and pharmacy. Iola became Allen County's seat in 1865. By 1870, the population reached 1,500 as railways arrived, though growth stagnated for the next 25 years due to local and national challenges.

In 1895, everything changed when massive natural gas reserves were discovered nearby. Between 1895 and 1904, Iola transformed from a town of 1,567 residents to a booming city exceeding 11,000 people. This population surge brought many buildings still standing today. The community developed a water plant, electric generation facility, paved streets, schools, and experienced general prosperity.

The Commission form of Government was adopted in 1910 with three elected City Commissioners. Unfortunately, natural gas supplies began diminishing, forcing many industries like smelters to relocate. The 1920s and 1930s saw minimal positive change, with exceptions being the Pet Milk plant (1924) and H.L. Miller and Sons dressmakers (circa 1933).

Before World War II, the Riverside Park complex was constructed, older schools were replaced, utilities upgraded, and new businesses and homes built. Post-war development included utility expansion, improved water filtration, street paving, and construction of a new hospital, National Guard Armory, commercial buildings, and residential areas.

During the 1970s-80s, Thompson Poultry Company and Lehigh Cement Plant declined, but new industries like Gates Rubber Company, Haldex, and Russell Stover's Candies revitalized Iola's economy. The City of Iola continues its commitment to serving residents and businesses with quality, affordable services for years to come.