New Hampton — Population: 3,692

In New Hampton, Iowa, ponder the mystery of the ancients while examining evidence of long ago Viking inhabitants. Stroll through the community's picturesque downtown and shop in a variety of shops with hometown friendliness and customer service. Tour the fascinating exhibits at the restored Carnegie Cultural Center and learn more about the history of New Hampton's people and places.

The rejuvenation of downtown New Hampton is something of a love story. Resident's love for their community and desire to see it as it once was inspired the creation of a local Main Street program. Founded in 1991 and affiliated with the Main Street Iowa program since 1993, New Horizons-Chamber has many success stories under its belt. Among them is a zero vacancy rate among downtown storefronts, dozens of building improvements made possible by nearly $1,000,000 in private investment, and most important, the restoration of the community's pride. Visit New Hampton!

New Horizons-Chamber
15 West Main St.
New Hampton, Iowa 50659
phone: 641/394-2021
fax: 641/394-2494
email: nhc@iowatelecom.net

www.ci.new-hampton.ia.us/comerce.htm

Town History

New Hampton was named by Osgood Gowan, an early settler and the town's first postmaster, in honor of his former home New Hampton, New Hampshire. In 1857, the county seat of Chickasaw County was moved from Bradford to New Hampton. In 1868, one of the town's founders, attorney J. H. Powers, used his influence to change the proposed route of a railroad line to run through New Hampton rather than several miles north of it. This resulted in rapid growth of the community, which was incorporated in 1873.

Landmarks and Unique Local Features

• Carnegie Cultural Center - Former Carnegie Library features permanent and rotating exhibitions.
• The Miller - Iowa's oldest hotel has been completely renovated and now features 15 luxury apartments.
• Mikkelson Park - Site of Iowa's largest wooden playground, the "Wooden Wonderland," walking trail, swimming pool and renovated bandshell
• Viking Sites - Ancient stones bearing runes, the icons of the Viking alphabet.

Annual Events

• June - Heartland Days - Summer festival with country flavor, parade, car show, music and plenty of good food.
• September - Davis Rally - Goldwing Motorcycle rally.
• November - Holiday Open Houses - Christmas kickoff featuring refreshments and sales.
• December - Candles, Carols & Cards - Downtown is magical with live window displays, free horse-drawn carriage rides, carolers, luminaries and the Festival of Trees at the historic Chickasaw County Courthouse.

Low Interest Loan/Grant Programs & Commercial Property

For more information about available downtown commercial property contact New Horizons-Chamber at 641/394-2021 or New Hampton Economic Development at 641/394-2437.

For information about loan and grant programs for downtown New Hampton businesses and property owners, contact New Hampton Economic Development at the above phone number.