updated 07/15/2013

Photos of Harpers Ferry, Taylor twp. In the early steamboat days, Harpers Ferry, with one of the finest townsites along the river, promised to become an important place.  The town was platted in 1852 and was incorporated in 1901.  David Harper was the leading spirit in the early development of the town. Right: Photo postcard titled "Along the bluff, Harpers Ferry, Iowa" T.W. Melaven ~contributed by Betty Palmer

T.A. & Veronica (Houlihan) Oestern home
photographer - Payne

The home of T.A. & Veronica Oestern was built in 1907 and was located on the corner of Orange and Third St. Harpers Ferry, Iowa. T.A. Oestern held various positions in Harpers Ferry and was postmaster for a short time. He and Veronica are buried at Paint Rock cemetery (St. Joseph's cemetery). More information about T.A. Oestern can be found in chapter 19 of the "Past & Present of Allamakee co.", 1913 on this website.

~contributed by Betty Palmer

Birdseye view of Harpers Ferry, ca 1920
~contributed by S. Ferrall




Section of Harpers Ferry - postcard post-marked 1913
Depot (left foreground), school (center), St. Ann's Catholic Church (upper center).
~contributed by Brian Theiler




Harpers Ferry train depot - postcard post-marked August 6, 1913
~contributed by Brian Theiler




View of Harpers Ferry, undated
~source: 1996 Waukon State Bank Calendar
~contributed by Errin Wilker




Joe Kelly, Harpers Ferry Postmaster
Harpers Ferry Iowa post office painted to celebrate the US bicentennial 1976
I think the painting was done by Joe and his wife Rose.

~contributed by Betty Palmer

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