Dunkerton is a city in Black Hawk County, Iowa, United States. The population was 842 at the time of the 2020 census. It is part of the Waterloo–Cedar Falls Metropolitan Statistical Area. History In 1853, two brothers, James and John Dunkerton, walked from Dubuque, Iowa, to stake out a claim of land near Lester. This claim became the town known as Lesterton, and later Dunkerton. In 1854, John died and was buried in the small cemetery, which now holds four generations of Dunkertons. James remained and built up his land. On December 25, 1854, he married Christiana Hodges. At 60 years of age, James and his eldest son, sold a portion of their land to the railroad, requesting that the railroad be extended to Iowa. This act enabled the present City of Dunkerton to be established. Attractions The city maintains four parks, including Charma Park, Eagle Scout Park, Gazebo Park, and Carol Hauptly Memorial Park, as well as Mixdorf Nature Preserve and the Dunkerton Sportsman's Club. The historic Dunkerton Bridge spans Crane Creek, connecting Charma Park to the city. The pedestrian bridge was built in 1909 and is still usable today. The Dunkerton Veterans Memorial Park on Main Street replaced an earlier hand-painted billboard containing the names of Dunkerton residents who had served in the military. The new monument, built in the early 2000s, allows families to purchase a brick engraved with the name of a veteran and details of their service. As of October 2003, there were 297 such bricks. Arts and culture Dunkerton celebrates "Dunkerton Days" in late July, with a car show, parade, mud volleyball tournament, fishing derby, and bike races, among other activities. The highlight of Dunkerton Days is the fireworks show which brings many people from surrounding areas. Newly added to Dunkerton Days is the Rust + Dust Market, which is a flea market bringing people who like junk from all over Iowa. Dunkerton Public Library After many years of city planning and fundraising, the Dunkerton Public Library was rebuilt out of the flood zone and opened its doors in December, 2010. The new facility includes computers, expanded inventory, and a special children's section. Geography Dunkerton is located at (42.568329, -92.160075). According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of , of which is land and is water. Demographics 2010 census As of the census of 2010, there were 852