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Washington Evening Journal
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Washington, IA 52353
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Demolition of PEO Library resumes
Significant work undertaken by DeCarlo Demolition; building crosses point of no return
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MT. PLEASANT - After calls for restoration and numerous false starts, the former PEO Library at Iowa Wesleyan University is finally coming down.
With abundant asbestos, apparently crumbling masonry, and several sewer backups, the Mt. Pleasant Community School District opted to destroy the structure rather than refurbish it. According to statements previously made by Superintendent John Henriksen, the MPCSD seemed to have no real plans for the building; it was simply part of the purchase of Central Campus, with its lucrative Chapel Auditorium and gym, which, unlike the library, were ready for academic use. But now, it seems, the district would much prefer the land to the library.
The fate of the 1927 building, conceived in 1925 as a memorial to the seven founders of the PEO Sisterhood, was a contentious subject. Previously, demolition had paused, for the exploration of alternative solutions to the building, and later, due to cold weather. Members of the public and the Mt. Pleasant Historic Preservation Commission voiced their opposition to the project, and the district listened. But now, with a false spring dawning, DeCarlo Demolition Company is getting on with the work.
By Feb. 17, much of the PEO was reduced to rubble, including half of its grand entryway. Grand columns lay on the ground, shattered into pieces. Exterior walls knocked down, the remains of several rooms lay open to the elements. Rebar and electrical wire lay drooping, protruding from the wreckage. What remains of the structure is not long for this world.
It is currently unknown whether the 1927 time capsule will be recovered. This capsule, placed within the building during its construction, is thought to still exist. A search for the capsule was proposed in previous demolition plans, conceived by consulting architect Thomas McNerney. McNerney previously said PEO members “were given an opportunity” to remove plaques, medallions and other items; Henriksen suggested Preservation Station in Burlington may salvage additional fixtures, but whether this actually happened is currently unknown.
Regardless, a threshold has been crossed. This is no mere removal of asbestos roofing tiles. The amount of destruction is irreversible. DeCarlo will continue with their plans, until the building is razed entirely, the rubble trucked away, and the site rehabilitated.
Call Marilyn Higgins at 319-368-8895 or email her at marilyn.higgins@southeastiowaunion.com
