Bentonsport Self Guided Virtual Tour

8   Hancock House This unusual frame home contains 39 different kinds of wood; the floor plans of the house, and the types of wood are recorded with the Library of Congress. The main part was built by James Brown in the 1830's. The back part of the structure was originally a schoolhouse. James Brown lived there until he built his new brick house (see No. 17) and Capt. Frederick Hancock, pioneer storekeeper and early Iowa legislator, then acquired the house. It is currently being renovated and is a private residence.
9   Presbyterian Church The Bentonsport Presbyterian Church, constructed of brick and Georgian in style, was dedicated in 1855. It was one of at least four churches once serving the town. Its clear-toned bell was originally on a steamboat. Owned and restored by the Bentonsport Improvement Association, the church offers non-denominational services at 9:00 a.m. on Sunday mornings and is often the site of a wedding. It is open to visitors 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, May - Oct.
10    Nature Trail This 1 mile trail is maintained by the Conservation Board and Bentonsport volunteers. It is an easy trail for nature lovers
11   Bentonsport Cemetery Maintained by the Bentonsport Cemetery Association, this cemetery is the final resting place of many of Bentonsport's founding fathers and mothers.
12    Little Stone House Currently under historical research. This little stone house is privately owned and is being restored.
13    Methodist Church Parsonage Built in 1857, this church was in continuous operation for 131 years until 1988. It is currently a private residence.
14    Methodist Church Built in 1857, this church was in continuous operation for 131 years until 1988. It is currently a private residence.
15    Sanford House Built in 1851 by John D. Sanford, it has iron stars showing on the outside walls which are anchor irons at the ends of metal tie rods. These were used for stability. There is a brick sawtooth pattern under the eaves which is for decoration and is a characteristic of buildings constructed before the Civil War. Mr. Sanford was a businessman in dry goods, and also operated an inn. The house is currently being renovated and is a private residence.

Continue Tour                          Print Tour Map                             Back