The American Gothic House is getting some necessary TLC!  Work will begin on Monday, July 9 to do restoration on the porch, banisters, siding, and wood features of the house.  The work (dependent on weather of course!) is predicted to last through August. 

Though this work will inevitably affect some visitor’s photo opportunities, this work is very important to maintain the historic integrity of the house.  Myself, the contractor, and carpenter, Jason Snyder, (who will be performing the work) have discussed a plan to have the restoration work occur in stages and during our off-peak hours to accommodate visitors as much as possible…but if you’ve been here you know people come at all times, all days, and all seasons!

I hope visitors will understand the need for this work to occur.  I will keep our website, newsletter, and Facebook updated on the restoration progress to help interested parties plan their visits.  If you have questions or concerns about the restoration work, please feel free to call or e-mail me at the information below.   

Holly Berg

Administrator

American Gothic House Center

641-652-3352

TheAmericanGothicHouse@gmail.com

 

Week 1 (July 8-14): Old paint is being removed and areas of damaged wood are being replaced around the house.

 

Week 2 (July 15-21): Work moves to the front of the house.

 

Week 3 (July 22-July 28): Painting is finished and focus moves to glazing the windows.

 

Week 4 (July 29-August 4): Work will focus on repairing the front porch. This work will affect pictures taken in front of the house during the week, but will not affect weekend visitors.

 

Week 5 (August 5-August 11): The porch repairs are finished. Early in the week work will focus on painting the second floor and glazing the gothic window. An effort will be made to do this work early in the day and late in the evening to interfere with as few visitors as possible.