Iron County is located in southeast Missouri along the Arkansas border with Madison county bordering it on one side and Reynolds on another side. Its population as of 2020 was 10449 with Ironton being its largest city and also serves as its county seat since 1857 when it formed out parts that were taken from Madison, Wayne & St Francois counties during formation process . This area also became known for iron production which started shortly after for a brief period till late 1800s .