This wasnt New York or Chicago.

A 3-4 bedroom home in Muscatine County typically ranges from $225,000 to $285,000.

Where is Muscatine County?

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By Jerry Huddleston from Hampton, Minnesota, US – Greg Hefels last run, CC BY 2.0

Muscatine County is located in eastern Iowa along the western bank of the Mississippi River.

The countys proximity to the river provided easy access to the mussel beds that fueled the button industry.

New Boston was a bustling river port where mussel shells were collected and transported to nearby factories.

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The average price for a 3-4 bedroom home in New Boston falls between $60,000 and $145,000.

Where is New Boston?

Its location made it a strategic point for river trade during the height of the button industry.

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Visitors can still enjoy the picturesque landscapes adorned with fruit trees, especially during the blooming season.

A 3-4 bedroom home in Fruitland typically ranges from $197,000 to $290,000.

Where is Fruitland?

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Nestled in Muscatine County, Fruitland lies just south of Muscatine along U.S. Highway 61.

Its convenient location makes it an easy stop for travelers exploring Iowas Pearl Button corridor.

Fruitland is accessible via County Road F70, inviting visitors to experience the tranquility of rural Iowa.

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Once a thriving town with button factories lining its streets, Oakville faced significant flooding that reshaped its landscape.

Today, the town is revitalizing, with residents dedicated to preserving their history and rebuilding for the future.

Homes in Oakville typically fall between $137,000 and $200,000 for a 3-4 bedroom.

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Where is Oakville?

Oakville is located in Louisa County in southeastern Iowa, near the banks of the Iowa and Mississippi Rivers.

Its position made it an ideal spot for accessing mussel beds essential to the button industry.

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The towns serene setting amid waterways and wetlands provides a peaceful backdrop for those exploring Iowas lesser-known locales.

The towns vibrant cultural diversity adds charm, with local eateries and shops reflecting a rich tapestry of traditions.

A 3-4 bedroom home in Columbus Junction typically falls between $140,000 and $220,000.

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Where is Columbus Junction?

The towns location provided easy access to river transport during its industrial peak.

Visitors can reach Columbus Junction by taking a scenic drive through rolling farmlands and along river valleys.

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The towns geographic position contributed to its historical significance and offers picturesque views and outdoor recreational opportunities.

Once an active participant in the pearl button industry, the towns factories supplied buttons to nationwide markets.

The annual county fair brings the community together, showcasing agricultural pride and small-town camaraderie.

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Visitors will find Wapellos relaxed pace and friendly atmosphere a welcome respite.

The average price for a 3-4 bedroom home in Wapello ranges from $150,000 to $225,000.

Where is Wapello?

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Located in southeastern Iowa along the Iowa River, Wapello serves as the county seat of Louisa County.

The surrounding landscapes feature rich farmland and riverside vistas, inviting visitors to enjoy the areas natural beauty.

Its historic buildings and local museums reflect the towns connection to the pearl button industry.

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Lansings picturesque Main Street is lined with unique shops, eateries, and beautifully preserved architecture.

Outdoor enthusiasts will also appreciate the ample opportunities for fishing, boating, and hiking in the surrounding bluffs.

Homes in Lansing typically range from $160,000 to $250,000 for a 3-4 bedroom.

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Where is Lansing?

The towns remote setting adds to its allure as a hidden gem with deep historical roots.

During the pearl button era, Marquette was home to factories capitalizing on mussel shells abundance.

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Marquettes blend of history and outdoor activities makes it a delightful stop along the river.

A 3-4 bedroom Marquette home generally costs between $180,000 and $280,000.

Where is Marquette?

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The town is accessible via U.S. Highway 18 and is part of the Great River Road scenic byway.

Marquettes position along the Mississippi River and beneath dramatic bluffs makes it a picturesque destination.

McGregor: Buttons and Victorian Charm

Adjacent to Marquette, McGregor exudes Victorian-era charm with its beautifully preserved architecture.

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McGregors Main Street has boutique shops, art galleries, and cozy cafes inviting leisurely exploration.

McGregors blend of history, culture, and natural beauty makes it a captivating destination.

A 3-4 bedroom home in McGregor is typically priced between $175,000 and $275,000.

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Where is McGregor?

The towns location amid rolling hills and river bluffs adds to its scenic appeal.

The towns proximity to both natural attractions and historical sites provides a rich experience for travelers.

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Bellevue: River Views and Button Stories

Bellevue offers a serene riverside experience steeped in Pearl Button history.

The towns involvement in the industry is commemorated through local exhibits and the preservation of historic sites.

Homes in Bellevue generally range from $150,000 to $300,000 for a 3-4 bedroom.

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Where is Bellevue?

Located in Jackson County along the Mississippi River, Bellevue is accessible via U.S. Highway 52.

The towns riverfront location provides beautiful vistas and a tranquil setting.

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Visitors can enjoy a scenic drive along the Great River Road to reach Bellevue, passing through picturesque countryside.

Fort Madisons Button History and Historic Fort

Fort Madison combines rich military history with its pearl button legacy.

The town was home to several button factories that thrived due to its strategic river location.

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A 3-4 bedroom home in Fort Madison typically falls between $160,000 and $250,000.

Where is Fort Madison?

Situated in Lee County in southeastern Iowa, Fort Madison lies along the Mississippi River and U.S. Highway 61.

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Its strategic position along the Mississippi River facilitated the transportation of mussel shells to nearby factories.

Homes in Le Claire generally range from $215,000 to $550,000 for a 3-4 bedroom.

Where is Le Claire?

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The town sits at the intersection of these major routes, making it a convenient stop for travelers.

Its accessibility and array of attractions make Le Claire a must-visit destination along Iowas river corridor.

Visitors can explore the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium to learn about the rivers ecological and historical significance.

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A 3-4 bedroom home in Dubuque generally ranges from $227,000 to $365,000.

Where is Dubuque?

The city is accessible via U.S.

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Highways 20, 52, and 61.

Dubuques riverfront location has historically made it a hub for commerce and transportation.

The citys rich history is evident in its well-preserved Victorian mansions and historic districts.

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Homes in Keokuk range from $72,000 to $139,000 for a 3-4 bedroom.

Where is Keokuk?

Located in the southeastern tip of Iowa in Lee County, Keokuk is accessible via U.S.

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Highways 61 and 136.

Keokuks riverfront provides opportunities for boating, fishing, and enjoying panoramic views of the waterways.

The city serves as a southern gateway to exploring Iowas Mississippi River towns.

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The citys lumber mills and button factories once thrived along the Mississippi River, contributing to a booming economy.

Today, Clinton honors its history through museums like the Sawmill Museum and the George M. Curtis Mansion.

Clintons blend of history, culture, and natural beauty makes it an engaging destination.

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A 3-4 bedroom home in Clinton typically falls between $120,000 and $166,000.

Where is Clinton?

Situated in eastern Iowa along the Mississippi River, Clinton is accessible via U.S.

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Highways 30 and 67.

Clintons riverfront location has been central to its historical significance and continues to offer recreational activities.

Burlington: Buttons and Bluffs

Burlington is a city where history meets natural splendor.

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Known for its involvement in the pearl button industry, Burlingtons factories contributed significantly to the local economy.

Visitors can also explore the Heritage Hill Historic District to admire well-preserved 19th-century architecture.

Homes in Burlington generally range from $125,000 to $279,000 for a 3-4 bedroom.

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Where is Burlington?

Located in southeastern Iowa in Des Moines County, Burlington is accessible via U.S.

Highways 34 and 61.

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The citys position along the Mississippi River and its dramatic bluffs provide stunning views and outdoor recreation opportunities.

Visitors can reach Burlington by crossing the Great River Bridge, which connects Iowa to Illinois.

The citys blend of natural beauty and historic charm makes it a captivating stop along the river.

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The citys riverfront location facilitated the transport of mussel shells and finished buttons.

The citys downtown district offers a lively mix of restaurants, shops, and entertainment options.

A 3-4 bedroom home in Davenport typically ranges from $115,000 to $365,000.

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Where is Davenport?

Highways 61 and 67.

The citys central location within the Quad Cities makes it a hub for culture and commerce in the region.

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Visitors can cross the river via several bridges connecting Davenport to its Illinois neighbors.

The citys accessibility and variety of attractions make it an ideal destination for those exploring Iowas river towns.

The well-preserved limestone buildings and traditional architecture along River Park Drive tell stories of the towns 19th-century roots.

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Visitors can enjoy the serene riverfront, explore the Lock and Dam No.

10 Visitor Center, and immerse themselves in the towns charming atmosphere that reflects both cultural and historical richness.

A 3-4 bedroom home in Guttenberg typically falls between $170,000 and $235,000.

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Where is Guttenberg?

Located in Clayton County in northeastern Iowa, Guttenberg is accessible via Iowa Highway 52.

The towns scenic setting along the Mississippi River and beneath wooded bluffs offers stunning views year-round.

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The towns proximity to both natural attractions and historical sites makes it a rewarding destination for travelers.

Muscatines charming downtown boasts historic architecture, unique shops, and riverside parks perfect for leisurely strolls.

Homes in Muscatine generally range from $225,000 to $285,000 for a 3-4 bedroom.

Where is Muscatine?

Muscatine is located in eastern Iowa along the western bank of the Mississippi River.

Its accessible via U.S.

Highways 61 and 92, making it an easy destination for travelers.

The citys riverside setting not only contributed to its historical significance but also provides stunning views and recreational opportunities.