It was founded on May 1, 1884, and named for Leola Haynes,[5] daughter of one of the town's founders.

[6] The city occupies an entirely rural area, and businesses and services include a grocery store a gas station-garage, restaurants and bars, a bank, a post office, a hotel, several small businesses (including farming supplies and equipment) and shops, grain elevators, local police and fire departments, and the county's public schools.

[7] As of the census[10] of 2010, there were 457 people, 209 households, and 125 families residing in the city.

36.8% of all households were made up of individuals, and 16.7% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older.

The racial makeup of the city was 99.78% White and 0.22% Native American.

40.6% of all households were made up of individuals, and 21.4% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older.

This growing public school serves as the hub of many community based activities.