Nestled in the heart of Iowa, a small town bears a name that consistently sparks curiosity and conversation: What Cheer. Far from being a mere whimsical moniker, this unique designation hints at a rich history and a vibrant past that shaped a community defined by resilience and small-town charm. For anyone wondering about this distinctive place, What Cheer, Iowa, is indeed a real and fascinating American town with a story worth telling.
The Name: A Greeting, A Discovery, A Legacy
The most compelling aspect of What Cheer, Iowa, is undoubtedly its name. The phrase "What Cheer" itself is an archaic English greeting, akin to "What’s new?" or "How are you?" Its adoption by an Iowa town in the mid-19th century is steeped in local lore, with several versions circulating, all pointing to a moment of significant discovery and camaraderie.
The most widely accepted origin story credits a group of Scottish coal miners. Upon striking a rich vein of coal, one of them is said to have exclaimed, "What cheer, lads, we’ve struck it rich!" This enthusiastic declaration, embodying the spirit of good fortune and shared success, was then chosen to christen the burgeoning settlement. This narrative not only explains the unusual name but also immediately connects the town to its foundational industry: coal mining.
Another account suggests the name was chosen by John B. Powers, who platted the town in 1865. Powers, possibly influenced by the common greeting or perhaps a place he knew, opted for the memorable phrase. Regardless of the exact individual or moment, the name "What Cheer" quickly became synonymous with the town, setting it apart on any map and ensuring its place in Iowa’s unique nomenclature.
A Glimpse into History: From Coal Boom to Community Roots
What Cheer’s history is inextricably linked to the vast coal deposits beneath Iowa’s soil. Platted in 1865 and incorporated in 1870, the town rapidly grew as a major coal mining center in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
- The Coal Mining Boom: The discovery of high-quality coal transformed What Cheer into a bustling industrial hub. Miners flocked to the area, leading to a population boom and the establishment of numerous businesses and services. The What Cheer Coal Company was a prominent player, extracting millions of tons of coal that fueled homes and industries across the region. This era brought significant prosperity, shaping the town’s infrastructure and cultural landscape.
- Railroad and Development: The arrival of the railroad was crucial for What Cheer’s growth, enabling the efficient transport of coal to broader markets and connecting the town to the outside world. This period saw the construction of many of the town’s enduring structures, including its historic downtown buildings and the iconic What Cheer Opera House, built in 1893. The Opera House served as a cultural cornerstone, hosting everything from theatrical performances to community gatherings, reflecting the town’s aspirations and its vibrant social life.
- Decline and Resilience: As the demand for coal waned in the mid-20th century, due to the rise of alternative energy sources, What Cheer experienced a significant economic shift. Mines closed, and many residents moved elsewhere in search of new opportunities. Despite this decline, the town maintained its core, transitioning from an industrial powerhouse to a quieter, agriculturally focused community.
What Cheer Today: An Enduring Midwestern Spirit
Today, What Cheer, Iowa, is a testament to the enduring spirit of small-town America. With a population typically under 700 residents, it embodies the quiet charm and close-knit community often associated with rural Iowa.
- Community Life: Life in What Cheer revolves around its strong sense of community. Residents often participate in local events, support small businesses, and maintain the town’s historical legacy. The local government, consisting of a mayor and city council, works to preserve the town’s heritage while planning for its future, managing local services, and upholding municipal ordinances that ensure public safety and quality of life.
- Economy: While coal mining is a distant memory, agriculture remains a cornerstone of the local economy, with corn and soybean fields dominating the surrounding landscape. Small businesses, including local eateries and service providers, cater to the needs of the community and surrounding rural areas.
- Historical Landmarks: The What Cheer Opera House stands as a proud symbol of the town’s past. Efforts have been made over the years to preserve and restore this architectural gem, ensuring it continues to serve as a focal point for community events and a reminder of What Cheer’s rich history. Other historic buildings throughout the town offer glimpses into its prosperous past.
Why Visit What Cheer? Beyond the Name
For those intrigued by its unique name, What Cheer offers more than just a quirky anecdote. It provides a genuine experience of Midwestern small-town life and a tangible connection to a significant chapter in American industrial history.
- Unique Photo Opportunities: The town’s name itself is a draw, making for memorable photos with the "Welcome to What Cheer" sign.
- Historical Exploration: History buffs can explore the architecture of its downtown, visit the Opera House, and imagine the bustling mining town it once was.
- Small-Town Charm: Experience the slower pace of life, friendly locals, and the genuine hospitality that defines many rural American communities.
- Gateway to Iowa: What Cheer can serve as a quaint stop for travelers exploring the broader landscape of Iowa, offering a unique counterpoint to larger cities.
In essence, What Cheer, Iowa, is more than just a peculiar name on a map. It’s a living piece of history, a testament to the booms and busts of American industry, and a proud example of a community that has adapted and endured, always ready to greet visitors with its own unique brand of "What Cheer."
Frequently Asked Questions about What Cheer, Iowa
Q1: Where is What Cheer, Iowa located?
A1: What Cheer is located in Keokuk County, in southeastern Iowa, approximately 70 miles southeast of Des Moines.
Q2: How did What Cheer get its name?
A2: The most popular story attributes the name to Scottish coal miners who, upon striking a rich vein of coal, exclaimed "What cheer, lads, we’ve struck it rich!" The phrase "What Cheer" is an old English greeting meaning "What’s new?" or "How are you?"
Q3: Is What Cheer, Iowa a real place?
A3: Yes, What Cheer is a real, incorporated city in Iowa, with a rich history and an active community.
Q4: What is the population of What Cheer, Iowa?
A4: The population of What Cheer typically hovers under 700 residents, reflecting its status as a small, rural Iowa town.
Q5: What is there to do in What Cheer, Iowa?
A5: Visitors can explore the historic What Cheer Opera House, admire the town’s historic architecture, experience small-town Iowa life, and enjoy the surrounding agricultural landscapes. Its unique name also makes it a popular stop for curious travelers.
