McGregor property owners recognized for historic preservation efforts
At a presentation Sept. 24, McGregor mayor Harold Brooks recognized three of the city’s property owners for their historic preservation efforts. Pictured with Brooks (left) are Mel Wild, Anne and Jerry Kruse and Monica and Paul Tiffany. (Photo by Audrey Posten)
At a presentation Sept. 24, McGregor mayor Harold Brooks recognized three of the city’s property owners for their historic preservation efforts, which have contributed to McGregor’s history, architecture and character.
The first plaque honored Richard W. Myers for his donation of the building that now houses the McGregor Historical Museum. Richard gifted the building, located at 256 Main St., to the city for use as a museum on Jan. 1, 1982, in memory of his mother, Lena D. Myers. Lena was a McGregor historian, writer and one of the founders of the McGregor Historical Society in 1942. The plaque, which includes the same words as the original, was presented to Mel Wild, acting president of the McGregor Historical Society, for display at the museum.
The mayor’s century award was presented to Jerry and Anne Kruse, who recently purchased and renovated a residence at 823 Walton Ave. The original portion of their home was constructed in the 1860s for captain James Patrick. An addition was later made to provide living space for a family member. The wrap-around front porch, double door and elegant color selection make for an eye-catching display and vast improvement to the property. The award recognizes the improvements Jerry and Anne have made to the residence, which contributes to the betterment of the community.
“The project started with a gift from Jean [Peterson],” said Anne of the long-time McGregor Historical Museum volunteer. “She brought us a picture of our house. We looked at our house and said, ‘Look how lovely it could be.’” Thanks to the help of Ryan Bacon, who completed all of the work, the house has been restored to its former glory.
The final award was presented to Paul and Monica Tiffany for their work on the commercial building at 258 Main St. Built in 1879, the building originally housed the Robert Lindsay Grocery. On Sept. 30, the Tiffanys will open the building as McGregor Mercantile.
“I am so pleased to be presenting this award to a young couple—the next generation of preservationists and entrepreneurs,” Brooks said. “Their enthusiasm is contagious.”
The presentation followed an event Saturday to raise awareness of community efforts to restore the Sullivan Opera House. Brooks recognized those who helped put the event together and thanked those who voluntarily serve on the McGregor Historic Preservation Commission.
