2018.009.016 [Center, Community]

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.