Fairfield, Iowa

Fairfield is a city located in Jefferson County, Iowa. As of the 2000 census, the city had a total population of 9,509. It is the county seat of Jefferson County{{GR|6}}.

Transportation

The nearest international commercial airport is in Cedar Rapids, approximately 90 miles (145 km) to the north.

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Like many towns in the region, Fairfield was sited in the late 1830's along the route of one of the developing rail systems. Today, Fairfield used to be served by AMTRAK, one of the nation's main railroad lines. AMTRAK carries passengers west-east on the California Zephyr, with passenger stations located in Mount Pleasant, Iowa (25 miles to the east) and Ottumwa, Iowa (25 miles to the west).

Related Topics:
AMTRAK - California Zephyr - Mount Pleasant, Iowa - Ottumwa, Iowa

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The Rock Island Line also passed through Fairfield, but closed in the late 1970s. The old steel trestle has been removed from its crossing, and the walking trail that will some day circumnavigate the town passes down part of the old roadbed.

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Evidence of other long forgotten rail lines can be found in the woods around town. A particularly charming section of narrow gage roadbed can be found cutting its way through Whitham Woods, a park at the west edge of town.

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