Preparation
Rapture Ready
State: Iowa
County: Monona County
Founded: 1853
Abandoned: 1858
Peak Population: 200+
Preparation was founded by Charles B. Thompson, a former Mormon elder who claimed to be a prophet. The commune 'prepared' for the Second Coming. When Thompson fled with community funds in 1858, the town dissolved. Only a cemetery and marker remain.
Plan Your Visit
Best Time: Year-round
Difficulty: Easy
Time Needed: 30 mins
Quick Facts
- Mormon splinter group
- Leader fled with funds
- Only cemetery remains
Location
Address: Preparation, IA (historic marker)
Coordinates: 42.0333, -96.0333