Doran was located in the NW ¼ of Section 34, Jenkins Township. A post office was established May 21, 1857 with N.W. Moss as the first postmaster. Mail was received from the Frink and Walker Stage Line on its way from Charles City. In 1856 Joshua Pilcher opened an inn and tavern just across the road the named it Pleasant Hill House. Groceries and Dry goods were also sold. During the Civil War it became well-known as a stopping-over place for soldiers on their way to and from the front. The post office operated until August 31, 1904.         Today the only evidence remaining is the old stage coach barn and part of the house.
The postal department named Doran but the reason for the name is not known.