Argyle is a city in Crawford County in the U.S. state of Iowa. According to the United States Census Bureau, its population was 71 at the 2020 census.
Geography
Argyle is situated in western Iowa at coordinates 41°57′38″N 95°27′08″W. The city occupies a total area of 0.55 square miles (1.43 km²), all of which is land. The surrounding region is primarily agricultural, consisting of rolling prairie and cultivated fields.
History
The community was platted in 1884 concurrent with the extension of a railroad line through the area, which facilitated settlement and commerce. The name “Argyle” was selected by early settlers, reflecting a common practice of borrowing place names from locations in the United Kingdom; it is likely derived from the Scottish region of Argyll. A post office was established in Argyle in 1884 and operated until its discontinuation in 1979.
Demographics
Data from the 2020 census reported 71 residents, a decline from the 85 inhabitants recorded in the 2010 census. The racial composition was overwhelmingly White, with small representation from other racial groups. The median age was 49.2 years, and the gender distribution was approximately 52 % male and 48 % female. Household sizes averaged 2.2 persons per household, and a majority of housing units were owner‑occupied.
Economy and Infrastructure
Argyle’s economy is closely tied to the surrounding agricultural sector, with many residents engaged in farming, agribusiness, or related services. The city is served by Iowa County Highway X35, providing road connections to nearby towns such as Sully and the county seat, Denison. Public utilities, including water and electricity, are supplied by regional providers; the city does not maintain its own municipal water system.
Education
Students in Argyle attend schools in the Denison Community School District, which operates elementary, middle, and high schools in Denison, the largest city in Crawford County.
Government
Argyle is incorporated under Iowa law and operates with a mayor–council form of government. The city council consists of three members elected at large, and municipal ordinances are enacted by the council and signed by the mayor.
Culture and Community
Community life in Argyle centers on local events such as annual fairs, church gatherings, and volunteer activities. The city’s small size fosters a close‑knit atmosphere, and residents often participate in regional events hosted by neighboring towns.
References
- United States Census Bureau. “2020 Census Redistricting Data (Public Law 94‑171) Summary File.”
- Crawford County Historical Society. History of Crawford County, Iowa. Davenport, IA: Historical Publishing, 1992.
- United States Geological Survey. Geographic Names Information System: Argyle, Iowa.
All information presented is based on publicly available governmental and historical records.