Jul 16, 2025 - Culture

The story behind how Windsor Heights got its name

Linh Ta

University Avenue in Windsor Heights — Windsor Heights along University Avenue. Photo courtesy of Eric Burson

Welcome to our new series where we share the origins of the metro area's names (here's Des Moines' if you're interested.)

Driving the news: First off — good ol', rebellious Windsor Heights.

How it started: In 1941, the small, village-like community was concerned it was going to be annexed by Des Moines and wanted to control its own property taxes and services, per History of Windsor Heights.

To incorporate however, they needed to figure out a name to put on the petition.
"Windsor" was a popular name used for several buildings in the area, including Windsor Elementary and Windsor Church. They were a nod to Henry Clay Windsor, an early settler in the area, per Iowa History Journal.

Yes, but: Just "Windsor" didn't sound fancy enough, according to Ruth Plymat, whose husband, William Plymat, filed the petition to incorporate.

But "Windsor Heights," inspired by their local plat called "Webster Heights," gave it a little more umph.

The bottom line: While it was a controversial 300 to 222 vote, Windsor Heights was incorporated on July 19, 1941.

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The story behind how Windsor Heights got its name

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