Villages
Take a step off of the beaten path and discover our villages. You'll find no fast food restaurants nor a single stoplight in the entire county! We offer our guests an ambiance that our county prides itself on.
Discover the peace and tranquility of small-town life that offers the opportunity to enjoy the season to the fullest. We invite you to come be our guest and experience the Villages of Van Buren!
Interactive Villages Map Pictures of the Past
Bentonsport National Historic District
Many of these residences and shops still inhabit the original 1840s structures, adding to the charm of this small town. The picturesque village contains historic B&Bs, Rental Cottages, Antique & Craft Shops, Local Artisans, and more! An old truss bridge spans the Des Moines River and is now open to the public as a pedestrian bridge. A beautiful Rose Garden, lovingly maintained by a force of volunteers, is housed in the former lock and dam. Bentonsport has the honor of being designated a National Historic District.
Birmingham
Birmingham was laid out in 1839 and the railroad came through in 1882. William Beardsley, Iowa's Governor in 1949, grew up and graduated from Birmingham. The City Park, located in the "heart" of Birmingham, features a new park shelter, gazebo, and historic log cabin.
Bonaparte
Within this small village (pop.426), situated along the banks of the Des Moines River, there has been a resurgence of historic restoration which will give you the feeling of stepping back in time. The Riverfront District is garnished with a butterfly garden, historic lock walls, refurbished bandshell, and restored mills. Historic street lights illuminate the downtown, gracious Victorian homes, and charming 1800’s cottages are dotted throughout the city. Visitors enjoy the architecture, unique shoppes and the down-home friendly atmosphere. Your trip through the Villages should always include a visit to Bonaparte!
Cantril
The village of Cantril was founded in 1872 and is currently the heart of an Amish & Mennonite community. In fact, a highlight for thousands of visitors each year is a visit to the Dutchman's Store, a Mennonite owned & operated old-fashioned general store. Cantril is also home to Waubonsie Park, a 23 acre retreat on the edge of Cantril, has become a popular area for fishing, camping, picnics, disk-golf and more! There is a beautiful 1mile gravel trail through the park, complete with 3 covered bridge that circles the large pond.
Douds-Leando
Leando lies on the south bank and was originally called Portland when settled in the 1830s. Douds was platted about 30 years later by Eliab and David Doud who stipulated at that time there be no buying or selling of intoxicating liquors in the town. Up until the building of the first iron river bridge (1898), the two towns saw much rivalry. Now regarded as one community, Douds is noted for its annual Field Days, and its tremendous stone quarry, one of the largest underground mines in the state.
Farmington
Established in 1836, Farmington is the oldest village in Van Buren County. When Henry Bateman laid the town out on the Des Moines River, it was the site of the county seat and two session of court were held here. But don't look for the old jail in Farmington because the first prisoners were chained to a stump! Farmington is home to the annual Strawberry Festival, Indian Lake Park, & Shimek Forest.
Keosauqua
Located in the heart of the County, Keosauqua offers a quaint downtown and is within close proximity to Lacey-Keosauqua State Park and Lake Sugema, Iowa’s premier fishing lake.
Milton
The Milton Heritage Society was organized in 1974; their main project has been the restoration of the Presbyterian Church (Heritage House), which now houses the community's museum. Arrangements can be made for viewing by calling 319-288-1162.
Mt. Sterling
The Mt. Sterling area is known for its excellent hunting. There are nearly 3500 acres of private and public lands that are enrolled in a wetlands program. There are approximately 660 acres of shallow water wetlands that stretch for over 7 miles. Several hundred acres of hardwood & softwood tees, native grasses and natural veegtation is home to over 100 different species of wildlife including ducks, geese, swans, turkey, deer, pheasant, quail, otters and eagles.
Selma & Iowaville
In the northwest corner of the county, these communities are rich in Indian lore and history. A mighty battle was fought there, when a combined Sac and Fox war party attacked the peaceful Iowans.
Stockport
For those who are stirred by the sight of flags, Stockport has not one, not two, but 285 of them flying on four different occasions each year, weather permitting. Those days are Memorial Day, Flag Day, Independence Day and Veterans Day. Come and see the "Avenue of Flags."
