Readlyn is a city in Bremer County, Iowa, United States.

The city is known for its culture surrounding the "Grump", a title of honor and area folklore character inspired by a real resident of Readlyn in the early 20th century.

[5] According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 0.33 square miles (0.85 km2), all land.

32.2% of all households were made up of individuals, and 17.2% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older.

28.9% of all households were made up of individuals, and 18.6% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older.

[11] Readlyn's motto is "857 Friendly People & One Old Grump",[12][a] as is prominently written on the city's sign on Iowa Highway 3.

[14][15] According to local legend, Readlyn's "Grump" originated early in the city's history, when a railroad passed through the area.

In 1904, an unkempt elderly nomad whose real name is not known, who had been freighthopping since his youth, disembarked from a train that arrived in Readlyn with the intent of settling down there.

[14] Every third week of June since then,[16] during a series of community events known as "Grump Days", a new Grump has been chosen from Readlyn residents aged 65 or older who submit their names for selection.

[13][15] Though the title's name suggests it is given for poor behavior, the Grump title is considered a prestigious honor by Readlyn residents, and those who have been the Grump generally view it as a source of pride.

The Grump is expected to participate in community events and parades, writes a monthly article about positive local events in the city newspaper, and is given benefits and goods such as a special hat and a custom license plate.

Photos of the Grumps are preserved in the Readlyn Historical Society, as well as at Grumpy's Spirits, Suds & Grub, a local restaurant.