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Promise City - an eye-catching name on a map or on a highway sign along Highway 2 in extreme Southern Iowa. Who is responsible for the name no one knows for certain. Some old timers credit it to the Mormons who moved through Wayne County on their way from Nauvoo, Ill., to settle at Salt Lake City, Utah. Others think that perhaps early settlers saw the possibility of the settlement growing into a large place and named it Promise City.
At one time it was a thriving little town, perhaps its population reached nearly 500, with all the business places necessary to support the hardy pioneers. Old settlers remember grocery store, bank, churches, school, garages, doctor's office, post office, stock yards, millinery shop, drug store, lumber yard and barber shop. Of these, only the post office and churches survived and a thriving lumber yard and hardware store is now located at the west edge of town. When the railroad was discontinued and no longer brought mail and necessary supplies for the continuation of business, the shops began to fold, one by one. And when consolidation spelled the closing of the school, barely a gasp of life was left in Promise City! But an idea began to form in the minds of some residents; Promise City needed a community building. A spark of hope came to life in the form of a generous donation from Amy Robertson. That spark was fanned by community spirit in giving of time and money. The idea became a reality. A community building now stands on the east side of the street that was once the town's main street. Now Promise City is alive again. If one doubts it just observe the activity generated almost every weekend when the building is bursting with family reunions. Various clubs and business organizations find it a convenient place to meet. On the first Thursday of each month, one better arrive early to find a seat or parking space. That is when musicians from near and far with violins, guitars, key boards or any instrument that can be played, gather for an evening of Country Music. A new restaurant just east of town attracts many of the townspeople and travelers. But if you want to see and enjoy real community the notice in the Post Office across the street: Coffee in Community Building Everyone Welcome. Early you will smell the coffee perking and usually there is a pan of biscuits baking in the oven. People arrive with pans of delicious snacks - everyone is welcome - with or without. The only requirement is a smile on your face, a hardy "Good Morning" and good news about someone or something in the community. |