Rose Grove - This settlement was originally called Skunk Grove. It was located in SW Sec. 30-88-23 of Rose Grove Township. However, during the life of Rose Grove, the township actually was called Boone Township. Skunk Grove served for a time as the northern terminus of a stagecoach line from Newton to Nevada, Story City, and Lakin's Grove.

Samuel L. Rose, an attorney, moved to the area and purchased 1,000 acres of land, practiced law, was appointed judge, and served for a time as postmaster. His wife, Mary, eventually took over the postal duties.

By 1855, the stage line from Newton was dropped in favor of a line from Dubuque to Iowa Falls and Alden. This line passed through Skunk Grove in 1855 before continuing on to Webster City. The realignment of the route was accomplished by the efforts of Walter C. Willson, promoter and builder of Webster City. Rose Grove had a hotel which provided accommodations to the travellers.

The post office, called Rose Grove, was established on June 9, 1865, with Rose as postmaster. The service was discontinued on Jan. 29, 1869. It was reopened on Jan. 17, 1870, with Mary E. Rose as postmistress. The service was finally discontinued on April 16, 1883.