The citizens of Lyon County have long felt that its beauty and natural resources were little known.  They have also felt that the growth and development of the county and the interests of immigrants and capitalists seeking locations in the West, might be promoted by adopting some means for making known the character of the country.  It has also been thought that some effort should be made to preserve the memory of the early settlers of the county, who have periled their lives in the wilderness and endured great hardships and privations to lay the foundations of the county, and to make some record of events in its early history, which would otherwise pass into oblivion when this day and generation have gone.

Accordingly, the Board of Supervisors of Lyon County ordered the publication of a pamphlet, to be devoted to these objects.  One of the early settlers of the county, who is well acquainted with the county, was appointed to write the pamphlet, and the following pages are the result of that action.

The writer is indebted to Dr. John K. Cook, of Sioux City, Iowa, and Hon. Charles Negus, of Fairfield, Iowa, for valuable information concerning the early his The report of Dr. C.A. White, State Geologist, and the sketch of Iowa by Hon. A.R. Fulton, Secretary Iowa Board of Immigration, have also greatly assisted in the preparation of this pamphlet.  The aim has been to give a brief sketch of the early history of the county.  Also, to give a truthful description of the country, and such a statement of facts as will give to all who may desire to seek new homes in the West, a correct idea of the superior inducements which our young county offers.

That these objects may be attained, and many induced to settle within our borders and share the advantages  and blessings which await all who will make homes among us, is the earnest desire of

The Writer