Photo courtesy of Bard Station Coffee House social media

When Allison and Kenan Todd noticed a shortage of coffee shops in Columbus Junction, the two took actions into their own hands and started one themselves. The Bard Station Coffee House held its grand opening last month, and has since become a place for residents and visitors to hang out and enjoy a cup of coffee or snack.

The name Bard Station is actually a tribute to some of the history in the area. As Kenan explained to KCII, “It was an old railroad stop between Columbus junction and Wapello. It was I think 1869 to 1901 was the post office that ran out of it. Its population peaked around 30 as a town. But it was mostly a railway stop for the river bottom there and it had stockyards so all of the farmers would ship out. They actually ran a lunch counter there too.”

While Kenan has had experience starting businesses in the past, owning a farm with his brothers, as well as helping to start the gym in Columbus Junction, this was uncharted territory for Allison. When asked about the undertaking of starting a business, she said, “It’s doable. I mean there’s a lot of work that goes into it. You definitely realize the support systems that you have. I think our family and friends have been very helpful. We’ve had a lot of people come around and help us out.”

The Bard Station Coffee House is located at 131 Main Street in Columbus Junction. It is open Wednesday through Friday from 6:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and Saturday from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.