HBI Community: Decatur County

Decatur County, Iowa, has a long and proud history dating back to its organization in 1850. Named in honor of Stephen Decatur Jr., a celebrated naval hero of the War of 1812, the county has undergone several transformations over the years. The original county seat was located in Decatur, but objections from residents—along with the discovery that another town shared the same name—led to its relocation to Independence. The community later renamed it South Independence before eventually settling on the name Leon, which remains the county seat today.

The county’s earliest courthouse was a simple log structure, reflecting the rugged conditions of the time. As the community grew, more substantial and fireproof courthouses replaced it. The current courthouse, completed and dedicated in 1908 at a cost of $70,000, continues to serve residents more than a century later.

According to the 2020 census, Decatur County is home to 7,645 people. The population is predominantly White, with smaller percentages representing other racial groups. Throughout its history, Decatur County has demonstrated resilience, adaptation, and steady community growth—values that continue to shape the county today.