An engine and iron works, a flour mill, a stove works and even a shoe factory were all once thriving businesses in Leeds. Now a residential neighborhood, you might say it’s small but mighty. Once
An engine and iron works, a flour mill, a stove works and even a shoe factory were all once thriving businesses in Leeds. Now a residential neighborhood, you might say it’s small but mighty.
Once its own town
Just as Morningside has its own identity, Leeds is even more independent. Founded in 1889, Leeds is the only neighborhood of Sioux City that was once its own designated town. With its own grocery store and post office, the population of Leeds swarmed to around 5,000.
In 1890, Sioux City was growing so large and so fast, Leeds was annexed only six months after its founding, and eventually absorbed into Sioux City city limits.
“I live in Leeds”
Even today, people say they live in Leeds, not Sioux City, and long-time residents of this one-time manufacturing suburb will argue all day with you that it still retains its own city boundaries.
In fact, I drove down Floyd Boulevard, the main drag in Leeds, just this past Saturday, and hanging from all the light poles are purple banners “WELCOME TO LEEDS”. Leaving a visitor not familiar with Sioux City to assume they have stumbled upon a hidden town omitted from local maps.
Leeds Days Parade
And just as Morningside has Morningside Days, Leeds has Leeds Days. Except Leeds is much older than Morningside. This past summer Leeds celebrated its 130th anniversary! Performances from local bands, a carnival and a car show are among the many events happening all week during Leeds Days.
Notable businesses and landmarks
Some familiar businesses in Leeds you may know, or may come across while driving through this area of town, are Steinbecks’s Pub, Leeds Barbershop, Jolly Time Popcorn, Ickey Nickel Bar and Grill, and Granny’s Stitches.
Is it Sioux City or is it Leeds?
The neighborhood of Leeds is so distinct that when I used to live on the Northside of Sioux City, I felt like I could never say I lived in Leeds, rather that I lived near it, even though my apartment was only nine blocks away.
So next time you’re driving down Floyd Boulevard, and find yourself entering Leeds, take note of the small-town pride emanating from local store fronts and banners. And if you get a chance, ask a local if they live in Sioux City, or Leeds?