Historical Places
The Tipton community is full of historic places of interest. The Cedar County Historical Society and Friends of Historic Preservation are active organizations striving to further the local cause of preservation and restoration of historic buildings and sites. A brief points of interest list is below (* denotes listing on the National Register of Historic Places).
Old Cedar County Sheriff's House & Jail*
Old Cedar County Sheriff's House & Jail which now serves as a local law enforcement museum. Built in the 1800's and remained in use as a corrections facility through 2001. Located on the corner of Lynn and 4th Streets in Tipton.
Floral Hall*
Floral Hall located at the Cedar County Fairgrounds.
Hotel Tipton*
Hotel Tipton in downtown Tipton. A large brick structure on the west side of Cedar Street just south of 6th Street, the old hotel now houses commercial businesses on the street level and apartments on the second floor.
Reichert and Landrock House*
Reichert, John Christian and Bertha Landrock, House (Also known as Wingert-Gelm-Victorian House)* at 508 East 4th Street in Tipton. Built in the 1870's, you'd be hard pressed to find a more unique home anywhere in eastern Iowa.
Tipton Public Library*
Tipton Public Library at 206 Cedar Street. This Carnegie Library was established in 1903 and is still thriving today. It houses a unique collection of Grant Wood lithographs.
Tipton State Bank
Tipton State Bank located at 501 Cedar Street. One of the focal points of downtown Tipton, the location has housed a number of businesses over the years, including the current use as a tanning and accessory shop.
Former Tipton Fire Station
Former Tipton Fire Station, corner of 5th & Lynn streets. There are remnants of an old jail deep inside the building. Currently the building serves as the local Red Cross office.
Old Union School
Old Union School, near the Tipton Public Library. This was the first free public school west of the Mississippi River and was established back in the 1850's. The school bell that was once used there is now displayed outside of Tipton High School.
Tipton High School
Tipton High School, on Walnut and 6th streets. Built in 1925, the traditional building once housed Tipton Junior College on the 3rd floor. The High School was recently renovated and modernized inside, but retains the historical elements that make it distinct.
Bloom Mural
Inside the Tipton Post office, built in the 1930's is a mural by John Bloom, husband of Isabelle Bloom. The mural is from the Works Progress Administration which are celebrated throughout Iowa due to their uniqueness and representation of that period.
Cedar County Attic