Welcome to Zwingle, Iowa, a locality with deep roots in American history. Established in the mid-19th century, Zwingle’s story begins in 1845, a year before Iowa became a state. Daniel Cort, along with his wife and five children, made a significant journey from Westmorland County, Pennsylvania, to settle on a farm in what is now known as Zwingle. This area was chosen for its abundant pure water from the springs along Otter Creek.
In these early days, Zwingle attracted settlers from Pennsylvania and Switzerland, forming a community that would eventually play a role in the religious development of the region. A notable figure from Zwingle’s past is Reverend Frederick Christian Bauman, who served as a pastor in the area for an impressive 55 years. Arriving in 1853, Bauman was instrumental in organizing churches throughout Iowa, traveling great distances on horseback or foot to aid settlers in establishing their congregations. His dedication to the community left a lasting legacy, with his family contributing to the growth of Zwingle.
The village itself witnessed the establishment of its first church property during Bauman’s ministry, marking the beginning of a structured religious community. The church became a central meeting point for the residents, reflecting the importance of faith and community spirit in Zwingle’s development.
Over the years, Zwingle evolved from a small settlement into a village that played a part in the broader narrative of American westward expansion and religious organization. Today, Zwingle is a reminder of the pioneering spirit and community resilience that defined much of 19th-century America.
