This week we’re featuring the town of Red Oak, Iowa (pop. 5,415) and sharing some of the stories of rural revival happening here! With five retail stores opening up in the past year in and around their historic downtown square and a growing arts scene, plus some incredible historic home renovations, facade improvements, and efforts to welcome even more entrepreneurs, Red Oak is quickly becoming one of Iowa’s hottest destinations — and a great place to work, play, and live. We'll be sharing stories throughout the week from local business owners who are making an impact in the community. Today’s guest blog post is from Daric O’Neal of Alley Poyner Macchietto Architecture and ROOT Development.

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The simple truth is, Red Oak is, and always will be, where the heart of Southwest Iowa lives.

In the beginning we had the mighty railroad, and the evolution it brought so many towns of our size, completing our connection to the rest of the world. We also had Thos. D. Murphy, and his amazing vision for cultivating world renowned artists, combining their works with a calendar, and bringing it to every home in America. And no historical account would be complete without mentioning that we had some truly incredible sons, brothers, fathers, and husbands that fought in both World Wars. We honor the distinction of having the most lives lost per capita in World War II every Memorial Day, along with the thousands of others that have proudly served our country but are no longer with us.

Today, the population is a bit smaller, but the oak trees are still as vibrant in the fall as they have ever been. That same vibrancy can be found throughout the community. We proudly boast of our incredible newer facilities and amenities such as the YMCA, Hospital and Medical Campus, Golf Course, Performing Arts Center, and amazing schools. Visit our historic downtown and see buildings on the National Register of Historic Places, many of which have been restored and house great little boutique shops. The architectural history continues as you travel up to Heritage Hill where many of our grand homes from the turn of the century have been well maintained and preserved. Restored train depot, check. History Center and WWII Museums...got those too.

Whether you just want to visit, or you are thinking of thriving here permanently, Red Oak is less than an hour to the Omaha metro and an airport that can connect you to the rest of the world. We invite you to visit, but we know you will want to stay, where the heart of Southwest Iowa lives.