Southern Iowa was once a coal mining center but when the RRs switched to diesel and most homes went to propane, the mines closed.
Most of the sons and daughters moved away for better jobs and opportunities, leaving behind many who had no interest in bettering themselves.
Yes, I worked for several years at the unemployment office in Centerville and was in charge of Appanoose and Wayne counties for the welfare-to-work program. Got to know Rep. Jim Leach (RINO-IA) while I was there.