The town of Sidney was laid out in 1851, and was originally to be named Dayton. The land for the town, was purchased from Milton and Jane Richards in 1851.

The surveyors were boarding with the Richards family. Richard's wife suggested they rename the city for her hometown of Sidney, Ohio. The town was platted and modeled on the lines of the Ohio town.

The present county seat was selected May 10, 1851. Dr. William Dewey was appointed by the commissioners to plat the town site. With the assistance of Henry Way, this was finished May 27, 1851. The sale of lots took place June 30, 1851. The first lot was sold to Stephen Cromwell, 1851.

Milton Richards was the first Fremont County Clerk of Court, serving from 1849-1853. The Richards are also noted for organizing the Sidney Church of Christ.

Milton & Jane (Jackson) Richards

Source: Photo used with permission, Fremont County, Iowa Genealogy Research.