Brandon - A Little Town We're Proud to Call Home
Brandon is nestled in the southwest part of Buchanan County on Lime Creek. Located one mile west of U.S. Interstate 380 off exit 49, roughly halfway between Cedar Rapids and Waterloo, it can also be accessed by D-48 from the east and west and V-71 from the north and south. The Cedar Valley Nature Trail, a hiking and biking trail, passes through Brandon's south side and includes parking, picnic shelter and restrooms. The trail stretches from Waterloo to Cedar Rapids, using a discontinued railroad line. Campers and picnickers can enjoy several areas such as Lime Creek Park to the northeast, Winegars Lake to the west and MinneEstma to the south. Public fishing can be enjoyed at Kourtney Pond and Cedar River Access. The Brandon GAR Hall was constructed in 1887 by Civil War Veterans and is listed as an Iowa Civil War Monument. It has been used for many years as the Jefferson Township Hall. The hall features early photos of Brandon. The Historical Society is currently restoring the 1915 two-story bank building to house an area museum. Brandon's Giant Frying Pan, created in honor of the annual Cowboy Breakfast, measures 14.3 feet tall by 9.3 feet wide and weighs 1020 pounds. It may not be the largest in the world, but it is certainly the largest in Iowa. Brandon Area Community Club (BACC) recently built a Community Center on Main Street. Outside is Brandon's Giant Frying Pan, created in honor of the annual Cowboy Breakfast. It measures 14.3 feet tall by 9.3 feet wide and weighs 1020 pounds. While it may not be the largest in the world, it is certainly the largest in Iowa. The BACC sponsors a variety of events throughout the year including the Cowboy Breakfast on the third Sunday in September. Brandon Days takes place on the first full weekend in August and includes a parade, car cruise, food, games and a dance. A benefit auction for the Brandon Fire Department is held the first Sunday in October. The Brandon Christmas Festival the first weekend in December includes hayrides, open houses. A variety of other entertainments are scheduled throughout the year. Brandon City Park, located by the water tower, has a newly installed (2015) playground, new concession stand with modern bathroom facilities, and will soon have new basketball courts. The BACC sponsors youth ball in the summer at the regulation size, lighted ball field at the park. The Lime Creek Fish and Game Club hosts their Annual Fish Fry the last Saturday in March each year. The event is held at the Brandon Area Community Center. |