History of Ankeny

Ankeny began as a farming community founded by John Fletcher Ankeny on April 22, 1875. Mr. Ankeny was an active Des Moines businessman and involved in area politics. He was also a promoter and stockholder of the Minnesota Narrow Gauge Railroad which was later built through the town of Ankeny.

Notable Dates:

• 1903: Ankeny was incorporated
• 1940: The Federal Government established an ordnance plant for the manufacture of ammunition on the site that is now John Deere Company.
• Late 1800’s
• The 1900’s