City of Columbus Junction, Iowa

Links of Interest 

Hispanic Culture                                                                        Photo Gallery

Columbus Junction is well known for its authentic Hispanic culture. Immigrants from Mexico began coming to the area in the early 1900’s to work on the railroad. Following that era, migrant farm jobs were the big draw. Currently the attraction is most likely to be employment at the Tyson plant just outside of the city.

Some of the descendants of those early immigrants stayed in the area, now marking four or five generations in the United States. They are accompanied by many Hispanic families that came to Columbus Junction in the 80’s and 90’s, and others that continue to arrive today. In many cases the latter are relatives of earlier arrivals who encourage their family members to come where there are jobs, nice houses, good schools and a safe community.

The Hispanic community in Columbus Junction is predominantly of Mexican descent with most states and certainly all regions of Mexico represented. However, the diversity in Columbus Junction is itself very diverse. Guatemala, Honduras, el Salvador, Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico and Cuba are among the home countries of our residents. To make things even a little more interesting, many of the Hispanic residents of Columbus Junction come to our small city after living in Los Angeles, Chicago or New York City.

One of the best places to explore Hispanic Culture is in downtown Columbus Junction. Nearly one third of our businesses are Latino-owned. The tacos are delicious, the Quinceañera dresses are beautiful and fresh mangos, avocados and jalapenos are always available. Shopping Hispanic style can be a little different—you won’t necessarily get a check at the restaurant, it might be waiting for you at the register; at the bakery you’re handed the tray and tongs because the display case doors open on the customer’s side for you to serve yourself and the business owner’s children or grandchildren might be there after school working on homework.

Please come experience Hispanic immigrant culture in Columbus Junction. The Community Development Center staff is happy to work with bus groups, clubs and classrooms to make it a more fun and interesting experience. We can arrange guided tours, catered meals and even live music, please call or email.

For people and organizations interested in a more in depth experience we offer Immersion Weekends. Participant are here Friday through Sunday, they stay with Hispanic host families, attend cultural and language workshops and enjoy Hispanic social events. Upcoming dates include June 26-28 and October 9-11. Click here for a registration form.

New Iowan Civic Center

232 - 2nd Street

Columbus Junction, IA. 52738

(319) 728-7971

 Please send your comments to CDC@ColumbusJunctionIowa.org