Iowa, renowned for its cornfields, farms, and amiable residents, harbors a concealed facet that eludes many—the presence of ghost towns. These towns, once vibrant and populated, now bear witness to abandonment and decay, a consequence of factors like natural calamities, economic downturns, societal shifts, or political unrest. Some retain traces of their past through structures or artifacts, while others have vanished entirely. This post delves into one of Iowa’s most eerie and captivating ghost towns: Buckhorn.
Buckhorn: A Glimpse into the Past
Situated in Jackson County just off Highway 64, Buckhorn emerged in the late 1800s as a cooperative farming town. Residents shared land, crops, and profits, fostering prosperity and tranquility. The town boasted a stagecoach, tavern, blacksmith, hotel, and numerous stores. However, in 1960, a commercial dairy farm purchased the town, prompting a mass exodus. Residents sold their properties, and Buckhorn succumbed to abandonment, with many structures either demolished or left to deteriorate.
The Lingering Spectres of Buckhorn
Presently, Buckhorn stands as one of Iowa’s most haunting and intriguing ghost towns, with a handful of abandoned structures. Key sites to explore include:
The Church: Constructed in 1898, the church served as a place of worship and community gathering. Despite its white wooden exterior, red metal roof, and tall steeple, the interior lies empty and dusty, holding echoes of its former role. The adjacent cemetery hosts the graves of Buckhorn’s former residents.
The Buckhorn Creamery: Erected in 1902, this creamery was a prideful revenue source for the town, processing local milk and cream. A large brick building with a metal roof and chimney, the creamery’s interior, now dilapidated, still reveals remnants of its past glory.
The Old Cemetery: Perched on a hill overlooking the town, the old cemetery exudes mystery. Overgrown with weeds and wildflowers, it houses weathered tombstones, some broken or illegible. Legend has it that the cemetery is haunted by the ghost of a woman buried alive.
Why Venture to Buckhorn?
Buckhorn evokes a chilling yet curious ambiance, offering a journey back in time to Iowa’s history and culture. It challenges visitors to explore, discover, and imagine, fostering an appreciation for the beauty and enigma of abandoned places. If seeking a unique adventure, Buckhorn beckons. However, a word of caution: venturing alone or at night may not be for the faint of heart.
In Conclusion
Buckhorn, a once-thriving farming co-op town, now stands as one of Iowa’s most captivating ghost towns, abandoned in the 1960s. Exploring its remnants, including the church, creamery, and old cemetery, provides an opportunity for both trepidation and wonder. This unique and adventurous experience awaits those ready to delve into the mysteries of a forgotten past. We hope this post offers valuable insights, and we welcome your comments and questions. Thank you for reading, and may your exploration of Buckhorn be as intriguing as its ghostly tales.