Understand

The early settlers of this area were a brave and diverse group, including English pioneers and Bavarian immigrants. By 1837, a few English settlers had already made their homes in this vicinity. The community started taking shape in 1839, with the first land deed recorded by Joseph Hewitt. In 1846, a group of adventurous Bavarians arrived in covered wagons, bringing with them ten families and a total of 42 people. They were the heart of our farming community, determined to establish a new life in this rugged wilderness. A year later, in 1847, James Dyer arrived and saw great potential in this land. He chose this site to build a settlement, and his family and friends from Somersetshire, England followed in 1848. Under Dyer's leadership, this community flourished. A flurry of construction began, including mills, shops, hotels, and beautiful homes. Churches also sprung up, becoming important places of worship for the growing population. As the years passed, the English settlers faced hardship due to economic crises, such as the panics and depressions of 1857 and 1873. Many of them left in search of better opportunities in finance, commerce, and trade. Taking advantage of this situation, the Germans, led by the Bulingers, Forkenbrocks, Goerdts, Holschers, and Schultzes, gradually took over the leadership roles in the community. In 1858, Bernard and Henry Holscher opened the first German-speaking business in Dyersville, a General Merchandise Store. This marked the beginning of a bustling trade center, where farmers could conveniently purchase their necessities and sell their products. Though the English gradually ceded their prominence, their legacy remains. Many of the homes they built still stand today, serving as a testament to their pioneering spirit. Some English descendants have even intermarried with German families, creating a unique blend of cultures within our community. We also have a vibrant Irish presence, with some families tracing their roots back to those who came to work on the railroads and decided to stay.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

**1. Hamburger**The hamburger, often simply called a burger, is a sandwich consisting of a cooked patty of ground beef, usually served in a bun with toppings and condiments such as lettuce, tomato, onion, cheese, and pickles. It is a quintessential American fast food item that can be found at restaurants, fast food joints, and even street vendors throughout the country. While traditional hamburgers typically include beef, there are also vegetarian options available made from plant-based ingredients.

**2. Pizza**Pizza is a popular Italian-American dish consisting of a yeasted flatbread base, typically topped with tomato sauce, cheese, and various other ingredients such as meats, vegetables, and herbs. In the United States, pizza is often sold as both a take-out and sit-down dining option, with numerous regional variations in styles and toppings. Pepperoni is a particularly popular topping in the U.S., but vegetarian and vegan pizzas are also widely available.

**3. Fried Chicken**Fried chicken is a southern-style dish comprised of marinated chicken pieces that are coated in a seasoned flour mixture and deep-fried until golden brown and crispy. Originating from the American South, fried chicken has become a staple in the country's culinary landscape, with various regional variations in preparation styles and seasonings. It can be enjoyed as a standalone meal or as part of a larger feast, and although traditionally prepared with chicken, vegetarian alternatives do exist.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing