Martensdale
Small Town, Big Personality
History
Martensdale was founded in the late 19th century as a small railroad and farming community. The town flourished with the arrival of the rail line, which connected it to larger markets in Iowa and beyond. Though it has remained a small town, Martensdale has a strong sense of identity and is known for its dedicated school system and athletics, particularly the Martensdale-St. Mary's Blue Devils baseball team has earned state championships.
Local Farm Stands
Seasonal markets offering fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts.
Key Attractions
Banner Lakes at Summerset State Park
Banner Lakes at Summerset State Park is a 222-acre state park in Warren County, Iowa, United States, near the city of Indianola. Opened in 2004, the park is located on the site of a 1930s coal mine; its two namesake lakes were formed from the remnants of the mine
13084 Elk Horn St, Carlisle, IA 50047, USA
Martensdale-St. Marys Sports Complex
A hub for local sporting events, particularly high school baseball and football games.
Timeline
1913
Founding
Martensdale began with a public land sale along a key railroad corridor.
1920
Incorporation
The town was officially incorporated and formed its own school system.
1958
School Merger
Martensdale unified its schools with nearby St. Marys, strengthening the community.
1986
Railroad End
The last train passed through town, marking the end of an era.
1992
Rail-Trail Conversion
The city has expanded through several annexations, including the Howard Hughes farm in 1972, the Casady farm in 1973, and the max Willison farm in 1977.
2020
Modern Community
A tight-knit town thriving as part of the Des Moines metro area.
Though small in size, Martensdale offers a close-knit community atmosphere with strong local pride and deep agricultural roots. Whether you're stopping by for a sports event, exploring the surrounding parks, or supporting local businesses, Martensdale provides a quiet yet welcoming retreat in the heart of Warren County.
