Winterset in Madison County, Iowa — The American Midwest (Upper Plains)
61 Jefferson Street
circa 1875
Photographed By William Fischer, Jr., February 18, 2014
1. 61 Jefferson Street Marker
Eli Cox, builder of several local covered bridges, had the contract to build this structure. During the construction, gas pipes were incorporated in anticipation of soon having a source for lighting. The Opera House was originally on the second floor of this building and the buildings immediately east and west of this one. There were platforms and seating for 450-500 people. The City Hall was upstairs behind the Opera House.
From 1876 until the present (2006), the main floor of this building has been a restaurant. According to local legend, during Prohibition in the 1920's, one could purchase a pint of alcohol and receive it in a cigar box. Alcohol was also available in a cup of coffee. In 1994, several scenes from the movie "The Bridges of Madison County" were filmed at the Northside Cafe.
Erected 2006 by Madison County Antique Association.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Arts, Letters, Music • Bridges & Viaducts • Entertainment • Industry & Commerce. A significant historical year for this entry is 1876.
Location. 41°
this page online
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. 63 Jefferson Street (here, next to this marker); 59 Jefferson Street (a few steps from this marker); 57 Jefferson Street (a few steps from this marker); 65 Jefferson Street (a few steps from this marker); 67 Jefferson Street (a few steps from this marker); 55 Jefferson Street (a few steps from this marker); 53 Jefferson Street (within shouting distance of this marker); 69 Jefferson (within shouting distance of this marker). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Winterset.
Also see . . .
1. History of Madison County, Iowa. (Submitted on March 20, 2014, by William Fischer, Jr. of Scranton, Pennsylvania.)
2. Discover Madison County, Iowa. (Submitted on March 20, 2014, by William Fischer, Jr. of Scranton, Pennsylvania.)
Photographed By William Fischer, Jr., February 18, 2014
2. 61 Jefferson Street and Marker
Credits. This page was last revised on August 31, 2020. It was originally submitted on March 20, 2014, by William Fischer, Jr. of Scranton, Pennsylvania. This page has been viewed 434 times since then and 10 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on March 20, 2014, by William Fischer, Jr. of Scranton, Pennsylvania.
