Newton: The Jewel of Central Iowa

• HelloHowdy
  [haw-dee]
• GoodbyeSee ya
  [see yuh]
• YesYep
  [yep]
• NoNah
  [nuh]
• Please/You're welcomeSure thing
  [shur thang]
• Thank youThanks
  [thanks]
• Excuse me/SorryPardon
  [par-dun]
• How are you?How ya doin'?
  [how yuh doo-in]
• Fine. And you?Doing good. You?
  [doo-in good. yuh?]
• Do you speak English?Ya speak English?
  [yuh speak ing-glish?]
• I don't understandI dunno what ya mean
  [ah dun-noh whut yuh mean]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I take a gander at the menu, please
  [kan ah take uh gan-der at thuh menu, please]
• I don't eat meatI don't do meat
  [ah dun doh meat]
• Cheers!Bottoms up!
  [bot-ums up]
• I would like to pay, pleaseI'll settle up, please
  [ah-l set-ul up, please]

• Help!SOS!
  [ess-oh-ess]
• Go away!Git!
  [git]
• Call the Police!Holler for the Cops!
  [hawl-ur for thuh cops]
• Call a doctor!Send for a doc!
  [send fer uh dahk]
• I'm lostI'm all turned around
  [ahm all turned uh-round]
• I'm illI'm feelin' poorly
  [ahm feel-in poor-lee]

• I'd like to buy...I'm fixin' to purchase...
  [ahm fik-sin tuh pur-chiss...]
• I'm just lookingJust browsin'
  [just browz-in]
• How much is it?How much fer it?
  [how much fur it?]
• That's too expensiveThat's a bit steep
  [that's uh bit steep]
• Can you lower the price?Can ya knock a bit off?
  [kan yuh nok uh bit off?]

• What time is it?What's the time?
  [whuts thuh time?]
• It's one o'clockIt's one
  [its one]
• Half past (10)Half past ten
  [half past ten]
• MorningMornin'
  [morn-in]
• AfternoonAfternoon
  [after-noon]
• EveningEvenin'
  [even-in]
• YesterdayYest'day
  [yest-duh]
• TodayToday
  [tuh-day]
• TomorrowTomorrer
  [tuh-mor-ur]
• 1One
  [wun]
• 2Two
  [too]
• 3Three
  [three]
• 4Four
  [for]
• 5Five
  [fahv]
• 6Six
  [siks]
• 7Seven
  [sev-un]
• 8Eight
  [ait]
• 9Nine
  [nine]
• 10Ten
  [ten]

• Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [wheres thuh]
• What's the address?What's the addy?
  [whuts thuh add-ee]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Can ya point it out (on the map)?
  [kan yuh point it out (on thuh map)]
• When's the next (bus)?When's the next bus?
  [whens thuh next bus]
• A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [uh tik-it (tuh)]

Newton, Iowa, was founded in 1850 and named after Sergeant Newton, a soldier in the American Revolutionary War. The city was originally platted by Jacob Fisher, a land speculator, and it quickly began to grow as a farming community.

In 1867, the arrival of the railroad dramatically transformed Newton. The Chicago, Rock Island, and Pacific Railroad brought increased commerce and population growth, making Newton a hub for shipping agricultural products and manufactured goods.

Perhaps the most significant chapter in Newton's history is the establishment of the Maytag Corporation. Founded in 1893 by Frederick Louis Maytag, the company began as a farm implement manufacturer and eventually became a leading producer of washing machines. The Maytag Corporation shaped the economic and social landscape of Newton for over a century until its closure in 2007.

The Jasper County Courthouse, built in 1911, is a notable landmark in Newton. This impressive Beaux-Arts style building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and serves as a symbol of the city's rich history and commitment to preserving its heritage.

The 1920s were a period of significant growth and prosperity for Newton. The success of the Maytag Company brought wealth and development to the city. New schools, hospitals, and public buildings were constructed during this period, marking a time of modernization and expansion.

Like many American towns, Newton faced challenges during the Great Depression. However, the Maytag Corporation's success helped to cushion the economic blow. During World War II, Maytag converted its facilities to produce airplane parts and other military supplies, contributing to the war effort and keeping the local economy stable.

Newton is home to several cultural and recreational sites, including the Newton Arboretum and Botanical Gardens, the Jasper County Historical Museum, and the Valle Drive-In, one of the oldest drive-in theaters in Iowa. These sites reflect the community's dedication to preserving its history and providing spaces for leisure and education.

In recent years, Newton has focused on revitalization and diversification of its economy following the closure of the Maytag Corporation. Efforts have included attracting new businesses, promoting tourism, and investing in community development projects to ensure a vibrant future for the city.

Newton, Iowa is conveniently located along Interstate 80, making it easily accessible by car. The closest major airport is Des Moines International Airport (DSM), approximately 35 miles west of Newton. From the airport, you can rent a car or use shuttle services to reach Newton. For those traveling by train, the nearest Amtrak station is in Osceola, about 70 miles away, and you can rent a car or take a bus from there.

Newton is a small city, and many of its attractions are within walking distance. For longer trips within the city or to nearby areas, local taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are available. Renting a car is also a convenient option for exploring the surrounding regions. Public transportation options include a bus service operated by HIRTA, which connects various parts of the city and neighboring towns.

The official currency is the United States Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Newton, including in restaurants, shops, and hotels. ATMs are readily available throughout the city for cash withdrawals. It's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and local markets that may not accept cards.

Newton is generally a safe city for tourists. Standard precautions should be taken, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping an eye on personal belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Newton has a local police department and fire department, as well as medical facilities including the MercyOne Newton Medical Center. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are several pharmacies in the city where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress comfortably and casually, but avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect religious sites and practices; it's polite to dress modestly and be quiet in places of worship. Public Transport: Do be punctual and respectful towards drivers and other passengers. Don't play loud music or talk loudly. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly smile and a handshake. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and be polite when dining out. Don't forget to tip, as it is customary in the United States.

To experience Newton like a local, visit the Newton Farmers Market held on Tuesday afternoons from May to September for fresh produce and handmade goods. Engage with locals at community events like the annual Bowlful of Blues festival in September. Don't miss out on visiting the Iowa Speedway for a thrilling racing experience. For a quieter experience, explore the Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge located just a short drive away.