Introducing our new Media Coordinator!

As announced a few weeks ago in the newsletter, Wapello County received an Iowa Community Cultural Grant to hire a part-time media coordinator.  I’m happy to report that we have now hired someone for the position!  Brian Chambers of Eddyville will start tomorrow as media coordinator for Wapello County.  Brian will be bringing a wealth of experience with him and I’m happy to have him on board. 

Brian will work 28 hours per week, half of those working directly with projects at the American Gothic House Center.  At the Center he will assist with the promotion of tours, educational programs, and assist with social media and photography of our events.  He might even write a newsletter or two along the way! 

In addition to his work here, Brian will promote the numerous other cultural and tourism attractions and events in Wapello County. Examples of these include the Airpower Museum, Ottumwa Community Players, Wapello County Historical Society, Naval Air Station project, and Wapello County Conservation Board.  The ultimate goal is for the American Gothic House Center and these additional entities attain more participation, merchandise sales, and fundraising.

Brian’s first day will tomorrow, July 27, so expect to hear more in the coming week and months!

Holly Berg

Administrator
American Gothic House Center


641-652-3352
theamericangothichouse@gmail.com

Restoration work taking place at the American Gothic House

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