DeWitt's History
DeWitt, Iowa, was established in 1836 by settlers from the eastern United States and is named after DeWitt Clinton, who served as the governor of New York from 1817 to 1822. In 1840, a second courthouse was built in DeWitt for Clinton County, and the town served as the county seat from 1841 until 1869. The arrival of the Chicago, Iowa & Nebraska railroad (now the Union Pacific) in 1856 sparked a population surge, bringing nearly 5,500 residents to the area. By the 1870s, DeWitt had blossomed into a thriving, self-sufficient community, boasting numerous hotels, markets, and a diverse array of shops and services.
Today
In an era where fewer than 10% of Americans reside in true rural areas and many rural communities are facing decline, DeWitt continues to grow, attracting new residents, businesses, and employment opportunities. Thanks to the collaboration between the city and the school district, the dedicated efforts of elected officials, and the unwavering commitment of residents and community volunteers, DeWitt has developed exceptional recreational, cultural, and educational facilities.
The community actively promotes job creation and the relocation of major employers, fostering a strong sense of community spirit where residents take the initiative to enhance the quality of life. Behind the scenes, the city efficiently delivers essential public services through a well-trained volunteer fire department, a CALEA-accredited police department, the county’s most popular library, and a Parks & Recreation Department that offers a wide range of programs for all ages while maintaining an extensive network of parks and trails. DeWitt truly delivers a clean, safe, and vibrant community filled with opportunities for everyone.
