The Early Years
Adel’s downtown architecture reflects the rich evolution of American styles. Late 19th-century Victorian and Italianate designs gracefully transitioned into Classical Revival styles in the early 20th century, characterized by elegance and symmetry. The Dallas County Courthouse, with its French Renaissance influences, reigns as the crown jewel. Later constructions integrated Commercial Style buildings, and post-World War II, simpler modern facades emerged, featuring innovative materials like metal and concrete block. Throughout these changes, locally produced brick infused Adel’s structures with a distinctive, vibrant character.
In its early days, Adel stood out as a beacon of innovation, flourishing without the influence of the railroad. Its founders embraced an egalitarian street grid that reflected simplicity and equality, steering clear of numbered streets, boulevards, or avenues. Even though growth was gradual, just twenty-five houses and three stores existed by 1855, Adel capitalized on its strategic position along the route between Des Moines and Council Bluffs, becoming a vital source of supplies for travelers and settlers. The establishment of a flour mill in 1856 ignited further settlement and hope.
Adel’s momentum propelled forward in 1879 with its connection to the railway system, further energizing local boosters and the Adel Improvement Company. Their vision for civic enhancement led to the implementation of public waterworks, a new library, hotels, and brick-paved streets, securing Adel’s status as a forward-thinking community. The creation of the magnificent French Renaissance-inspired Dallas County Courthouse in 1902, designed by Proudfoot & Bird, , became a proud symbol of civic pride and remains a stunning architectural centerpiece.
Brick Factory and Streets
The thriving brickmaking industry emerged as another defining aspect of Adel. Beginning in 1882 with R.M. Kearns & Company, Adel produced exceptional bricks, thanks to its rich clay and shale deposits formed by glaciers. Through mergers, the United Clay Products Company evolved, with the Adel plant renowned for its efficiency. Brick became not only a building material but a means of paving the streets of Adel. Starting in 1892 with the courthouse square, the brick streets became a hallmark, cherished despite debates about replacing them later with asphalt or concrete. Today, the remnants of historic brick paving stand as proud testaments to this enduring legacy.
Adel’s downtown architecture reflects the rich evolution of American styles. Late 19th-century Victorian and Italianate designs gracefully transitioned into Classical Revival styles in the early 20th century, characterized by elegance and symmetry. The Dallas County Courthouse, with its French Renaissance influences, reigns as the crown jewel. Later constructions integrated Commercial Style buildings, and post-World War II, simpler modern facades emerged, featuring innovative materials like metal and concrete block. Throughout these changes, locally produced brick infused Adel’s structures with a distinctive, vibrant character.
Post World War II
While many rural Iowa towns faced challenges after World War II, Adel thrived, thanks to its proximity to Des Moines and its identity as a welcoming county seat. An increasing commitment to preservation culminated in the designation of the Adel Public Square Historic District on the National Register of Historic Places in 2009.
Today, Adel proudly honors its rich history through thoughtful preservation guidelines and community spirit, ensuring that new developments beautifully complement its historic character.
Click here to view this district on the National Register of Historic Places (Registry) and click here to view Adel’s application to be on the Registry. The application contains extensive detail about both Adel and its Public Square Historic District. Adel Bank below is one of the buildings listed on the Registry.
