The Russell and Glenn families have been closely tied to the history and development of Adel for well over a century, particularly through business, civic leadership, and community involvement.
One of the central figures was J.W. Russell, who arrived in Adel in 1872. He founded the company that became Russell Abstract & Title, one of Dallas County’s oldest continuously operating businesses.
J.W. Russell also played an important civic role in Adel’s growth. According to Adel historical records, he served as president of the Dallas County Savings Bank, helped organize the first railroad through Adel, and served as mayor in 1894 during a period when brick streets, sidewalks, and a waterworks system were installed.
Today, Russell Abstract & Title notes that it has operated in Dallas County since 1872 and remains under fifth-generation family ownership.
The Glenn family became connected to the Russell family through marriage and eventually leadership of the family business. The business is now operated by Kent and Brett Glenn.
City of Adel Councilwomen and Mayor Pro-Tem, Shirley McAdon states:
“The Russell and Glenn families have led the way as a model of generational continuity and support for Adel’s business community….I believe that their enthusiasm for historic preservation helped the Adel Historic Preservation Commission in its effort to develop Historic Preservation Guidelines….the role of the building’s importance as a community asset and its role in maintaining the strength of Adel’s Historic Downtown District cannot be overstated.”
Jim Peters, Mayor of Adel from 1992-2025 shares:
“There is no family in Adel with a longer presence, and no family has been more committed to the community, both in word and deed, than the Russell/Glenn family.”
For more than 150 years, the building at 821 Main Street, home of Russell Abstract & Title, has been maintained, occupied, and reinvested in by the same family. Its
significance lies not in a single project, but rather in a sustained pattern of stewardship.
Current City of Adel Mayor Timothy Crannell writes, “A multi-generational dedication whose benefits extend well beyond the building itself and into the broader community.”
The families have assisted with the rehabilitation of other properties. 3 examples include spearheading the downtown square facade project, helping with preserving a Bonnet Factory that is now city hall, and helping the Law family restore the original Russell homestead. Both Russell and Glenn families have also been frequent contributors to the Adel Historical Museum and various projects.
Because of the significance and longevity of the involvement in the community, the
renovation of historical buildings and downtown, and the impact on the economic future of the area, Preservation Iowa is awarding the Martha Hays Preservationist of the Year award to the Russell and Glenn families of Adel.
