Harlan, IA

Harlan, Iowa is a small city located in Shelby County, in the western part of the state. Its history dates back to the mid-19th century when pioneers began to settle in the area.

The land that would become Harlan was originally inhabited by the Ioway Indians. In the early 1850s, Oliver H. P. Lee, a land speculator, purchased a large portion of the area and named it after his son, Harlan Lee. A post office was established in 1858 under the name "Lee."

The town began to grow rapidly with the construction of the Chicago, Rock Island, and Pacific Railroad in 1869, which ran through the area. This made Harlan a hub for shipping livestock and agricultural products, boosting its economy.

In 1870, the town was officially incorporated as Harlan. It continued to grow and prosper, attracting new settlers and businesses. The community's economy thrived on agriculture, with farmers cultivating crops like corn and wheat, as well as raising livestock.

Over the years, Harlan experienced several significant events and milestones. In the early 1900s, state-of-the-art amenities were introduced to the town, including waterworks, electric lights, and paved streets.

During World War II, Harlan made notable contributions to the war effort. The town's industries shifted production towards supporting the war, and many young men from the area enlisted to serve.

Harlan's growth continued throughout the 20th century, and the town embraced various developments and improvements. In recent years, the city has focused on preserving its historical buildings and landmarks, as well as promoting tourism.

Today, Harlan retains its small-town charm while providing amenities and services for its residents. The city boasts a rich heritage, evident through its historical sites, including the Shelby County Courthouse, which was built in 1883 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The history of Harlan, Iowa reflects the spirit of a community shaped by its agricultural roots, railroad transportation, and the determination of its residents to thrive in a changing world.

Shelby County Historical Society Museum

A museum showcasing the history and heritage of Shelby County, with exhibits on agriculture, industry, transportation, and local culture.

Harlan Cinema

A local movie theater where you can catch the latest films.

The Depot

A historic railroad depot that has been converted into a community gathering space and event venue.

Prairie Rose State Park

Located just outside Harlan, this state park offers beautiful natural surroundings, walking trails, fishing, and camping facilities.

Harlan Golf and Country Club

A golf course that offers a challenging course with scenic views.

Shelby County Speedway

A dirt track racing facility that hosts various racing events throughout the racing season.

Lynx Baseball Field

A baseball field where you can catch local games and tournaments.

Harlan Aquatic Center

A modern swimming pool facility with water slides, diving boards, and other water activities.

Harlan Municipal Park

A recreational park with amenities such as playgrounds, picnic areas, and sports courts.

Downtown Harlan

Explore the historic downtown area to enjoy shopping, dining, and local businesses.

Harlan, Iowa has a humid continental climate, which experiences four distinct seasons throughout the year. Summers in Harlan are warm, with average high temperatures ranging from the upper 80s to low 90s Fahrenheit (around 30-33 degrees Celsius). However, occasional heatwaves can push temperatures into the mid-90s Fahrenheit (around 35 degrees Celsius) or higher.

Winters in Harlan are cold, with average high temperatures in the 20s to 30s Fahrenheit (-6 to -1 degree Celsius). Snowfall is common during the winter months, with January being the snowiest month. Cold snaps can also cause temperatures to fall well below freezing, especially at night.

Spring and autumn in Harlan are transitional seasons with mild to cool temperatures. Spring is characterized by increasing temperatures, with average highs reaching the 60s to 70s Fahrenheit (15-25 degrees Celsius), while autumn sees temperatures gradually dropping from the 70s to the 50s Fahrenheit (around 10-20 degrees Celsius).

Harlan experiences moderate rainfall throughout the year, with the wettest months being May and June. Thunderstorms are also quite common during the summer months, sometimes bringing heavy rainfall and the potential for severe weather.

Overall, Harlan, Iowa has a fairly typical Midwest climate, with hot summers, cold winters, and mild transitions between seasons.

Harlan, Iowa is a small city located in Shelby County in the western part of the state. It is home to around 3,400 residents and offers a tight-knit community atmosphere. While Harlan is not divided into official neighborhoods, there are distinct areas within the city that offer their own unique characteristics and amenities.

Downtown

Harlan's downtown area is the heart of the city and is known for its charming historic buildings, locally-owned businesses, and eateries. This area offers a combination of residential and commercial properties and is a hub of activity, especially during community events and festivals.

School District

Harlan is proud of its strong educational system, and the neighborhoods surrounding the Harlan Community School District are popular choices for families. These areas offer proximity to the schools and often feature well-maintained homes with spacious yards.

North Harlan

Located north of the downtown area, this neighborhood is primarily residential and features a mix of housing styles, including single-family homes and townhouses. It is a quiet and family-friendly area with access to parks and recreational facilities.

South Harlan

South Harlan is a predominantly residential area that offers a mix of older and newer homes. It is known for its quiet streets and well-established neighborhoods. The Harlan Golf and Country Club is located in this area, providing residents with access to golfing and social activities.

East Harlan

This neighborhood is located on the eastern edge of the city and offers a mixture of residential and commercial properties. The convenience of being closer to major roads and highways makes it an attractive location for those who need easy access to transportation.

It's important to note that while Harlan's neighborhoods may differ in terms of housing styles and amenities, the overall sense of community is prevalent throughout the entire city. Harlan residents take pride in their city and work together to create a vibrant and welcoming place to live.