Get Kessel Lodge

Cresco is home to the Glen Brand Wrestling Hall of Fame of Iowa that had its first inductee banquet in 1970. As of April 2010 there are 97 members who have made outstanding contributions to the sport of amateur wrestling.

Living in Cresco offers residents a sparse suburban feel and most residents own their homes. In Cresco there are a lot of parks. Many retirees live in Cresco and residents tend to lean conservative. The public schools in Cresco are above average.

Cresco is home to Ellen Church, the first stewardess, and credited with starting the flight attendant industry by convincing Boeing Airlines that having nurses on board would help the airline industry convince the public that it was safe to fly. Cresco is also home to five admirals and the Iowa Wrestling Hall of Fame.

Cresco was platted in 1866 at the time the railroad was expanding into the area. Cresco is a Latin phrase meaning "I grow". Cresco was incorporated on June 6, 1868. On October 20, 1980, The David Letterman Show was broadcast from Cresco, the winner in a competition to host the show.

A World War I mine was placed in the park, (date unknown), as a memorial dedicated to Cresco's five admirals: Frank Lowery, Arthur Moen, Michael Malanaphy, Wallis Petersen and George Peckham.

The Historical Society was established in 1927 and works to preserve artifacts of this area as well as record the history of its people. The museum is open anytime by appointment; 563.547. 3434 and is open every day during Fair week; the third full week in June. From early pioneer days to recent years...it's all here!