Bentonsport National Historic District

Bentonsport . . . a small Iowa village on the Des Moines River was once an important port-of-call for Des Moines River steamers. Tree-covered hills hem in the little valley in which Bentonsport lies; and from Vernon, across the river, only the spires of the two white churches and a few houses along the shore are visible. At one time, the town had a population of over 500 residents. Bentonsport was thriving when the state of Iowa was born, and still retains the atmosphere of years gone by. Mormon craftsmen, heading west, helped construct some of its buildings; these and demonstration of historic crafts-for-living help recreate the spirit of life as it was 150 years ago.