Our History

Our Story

Fredericksburg was founded in the mid-1800s as settlers moved into northeastern Iowa seeking farmland, timber, and water along Plum Creek. Early pioneers established homesteads, schools, and businesses, laying the foundation for a permanent community. Frederick Padden played a central role in the town’s development, building its first dwelling, hotel, sawmill, and serving as the first postmaster. The town was formally platted and gradually grew into a local service center, shaped by agriculture, transportation improvements, and civic institutions. Incorporated in the late 19th century, Fredericksburg has remained a small but enduring community rooted in its rural heritage.

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Fredericksburg, Iowa — Historical Timeline

• July 4, 1838 – Iowa Territory established

• December 28, 1846 – Iowa becomes a U.S. state

• July 8, 1853 – First permanent settlers arrive: Godfrey Vail and John A. Billings

• September 21, 1854 – Frederick Padden arrives in the area

• October 1854 – Padden builds the first dwelling

• 1855 – First school district organized; stage mail service begins

• January 1856 – Steam sawmill constructed on Plum Creek

• October 1856 – Town of Fredericksburg officially platted

• 1856 – Post office established; Padden serves as first postmaster

• 1857 – Sawmill destroyed by fire and later rebuilt

• 1857 – Fredericksburg Township organized

• 1861–1865 – Local residents serve in the Civil War

• 1862 – Sawmill destroyed by fire a second time

• 1867 – Death of town founder Frederick Padden

• 1886 – Railroad reaches Fredericksburg

• December 18, 1894 – Fredericksburg incorporated as a city