Fayette County

Fayette County is an administrative county in northeastern Iowa with rolling terrain and farmland that supports agriculture as the main economic activity. The county includes the city of Fayette, home to Upper Iowa University, and several small communities spread across its landscape.

The county was established in 1837 and named after the Marquis de La Fayette, a French general who supported American independence. This naming reflected the nation's gratitude toward its Revolutionary War allies during the period of westward territorial expansion.

Upper Iowa University shapes the academic and social life of the city of Fayette and draws people from across the county for events and learning. The campus is a gathering place that connects the community.

The county is well served by U.S. Highway 18 and several state routes that connect communities and provide access to neighboring regions. Most services and amenities are concentrated in smaller towns rather than spread throughout the rural landscape.

The Volga River State Recreation Area in the northern part of the county offers spaces for fishing, hiking, and outdoor activities along the river. Many visitors overlook this natural area when exploring the region, missing a chance to see the landscape beyond the towns.

Location: Iowa

Inception: 1837

Capital city: West Union

Shares border with: Winneshiek County, Buchanan County, Bremer County, Chickasaw County, Black Hawk County, Allamakee County, Clayton County, Delaware County

Website: http://fayettecountyiowa.org

GPS coordinates: 42.86500,-91.84944

Latest update: December 8, 2025 13:40