Object Record
Images
Metadata
Object Name |
Center, Community |
Source |
Dexter Historical Museum |
Iowa History Era Tag |
Prosperity to the Depression (1897-1939) |
Chronological Tag |
The Emergence of Modern America (1890-1930) |
Catalog Number |
2018.009.016 |
Credit line |
Dexter Historical Museum - Dexter, Iowa |
Description |
This Community House, also known as the Roundhouse, was built in Dexter, Iowa, in 1916 to place another building that was removed in 1915. Several community members worked together to raise funds through the sale of shares in the new public building. There were 188 names on the original list of shareholders. Constructed of hollow blocks, its domed roof is without support except at the outer walls,with a stage at one end. It had a seating capacity of 1000. At one time there were bleachers and a basketball floor inside. The building was used for events such as plays, basketball games and tournaments, union church meetings, all-school musicals, and graduations. The building is still used for community events today. In 1975, it was placed on the National Register of Historic Places. Content can be used with the following standards: 3rd grade SS 3.28 Cultural Contributions and 4th grade SS 4.25 Technological Changes in a lesson on architecture and the engineering technology used in constructing the building. For any use other than instructional resources, please check with the organization that owns this item regarding copyright restrictions. |
Additional Research & Sources |
The community center was built for entertainment events, social gatherings and revival meetings in 1915. Built by architect Major Matthew Leander King, the building initally caused concern over whether it was safe considering it had a domed roof. To prove its strength, cars were driven up a ramp onto the roof of the building to show the public the durability of the building. Before schools had gymnasiums of their own, the center provided space for basketball games, school plays, graduations and musicals. The building could hold approximately 1000 people. Today the center is used for community events such as a Fall Festival, children's Halloween party and Holiday party. |
Notes on Related Objects |
Object is related to the following library resources, which can be found by searching the catalog number in the advanced search section: Catalog #: 2018.045.151- Hastie’s History of Dallas County, Iowa |
Primary/Secondary Source |
Significant - Local |
County Tag |
Dallas |
Relation |
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Multimedia Links |
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Search Terms |
Communities Destinations/Attractions Education Performing Arts Historic sites Recreation Community centers |
Legal Status |
Ownership of this resource is held by the Dexter Historical Museum and has been provided here for educational purposes only, specifically for use in the Iowa Museum Association's "Teaching Iowa History" project. It may not be downloaded, reproduced or distributed in any format without written permission from the Rights Holder. For information on U.S. and International copyright laws, consult an attorney. |
