Historic preservation efforts are key to McGregor’s vitality, identity
May is designated National Preservation Month by the National Trust for Historic Preservation. There are few communities where historic preservation is more important than McGregor, which this year celebrates the 175th anniversary of its platting by founder Alexander MacGregor. (Photo by Audrey Posten)
By Audrey Posten, Times-Register
May is designated National Preservation Month by the National Trust for Historic Preservation. Originally just a week-long event starting in 1973, it was expanded to a month in 2005, in an effort to further recognize historic preservation’s role in managing growth and sustainable development, revitalizing neighborhoods, fostering local pride and maintaining community character while enhancing livability.
There are few communities where that’s more evident than McGregor, which this year celebrates the 175th anniversary of its platting by founder Alexander MacGregor.
“In McGregor, it’s evident how much historic preservation has helped the town,” said Duane Boelman, McGregor’s deputy clerk and economic development lead. “The downtown is listed on the National Register of Historic Places as a historic district. So many buildings have been saved through preservation efforts.”
One of the greatest benefits is that it’s made McGregor a tourist destination.
“Research shows that, in places with preserved buildings, tourists tend to stay longer and spend more,” said Boelman. “That’s good for the economy.”
Michelle Pettit is a member of the McGregor Historic Preservation Commission and director of the McGregor Public Library. She’s developed a keen interest in the town’s history and enjoys sharing it with others and answering questions.
“This week, a few people stopped in looking for family history. One was a 32-year-old woman and then there was an older couple in their 80s,” she recalled. “People come looking for their own family stories, but they also like our story. We have an amazing history for such a small town—some people had national relevance. I like looking at all the names and how they interact.”
Boelman said historic preservation also goes hand in hand with economic development. Restored buildings attract shops and restaurants.
“The more preservation you do, the more economic development there is. It can serve as a catalyst,” he said.
The city hopes that’s the case with several upcoming projects. The 134-138 Main St. portions of the Masonic Block building, which was constructed in 1869, will soon be completely restored/rehabilitated by Black Swan Developers. Then, last month, mayor Lyle Troester announced that Jenifer Collins Westphal and her husband Jeff have entered into agreements to purchase the Sullivan Opera House and Alexander Hotel, with plans to contribute the properties to a new non-profit entity for the purpose of historical preservation of downtown McGregor.
“Those are three pretty amazing projects,” said Boelman.
Historic preservation can be environmentally friendly too.
“The greenest buildings are the ones that are already there,” Boelman quipped. “In restoration efforts, much more goes to labor—preserving floors and plaster—than materials. And when you use labor, more money stays local.”
“Older housing and buildings are also much closer together, so it’s less of a burden on cities to run and replace infrastructure,” he added.
McGregor’s layout, with historic neighborhoods close to downtown, makes it easier to traverse the city without a vehicle.
“You can walk anywhere to get the basics or have dinner,” Boelman said.
Combined, these characteristics make McGregor a great place to live, he added.
“There’s a lot of pride in the community for our historic buildings and homes,” Boelman said.
It creates the community’s identity, noted Pettit.
“There’s a classic value to things that have stood the test of time,” she reflected. “People enjoy seeing a distinct, unique place with a grounded knowledge of where we came from. If you don’t know history, you don’t know who you are.”
McGregor’s Historic Preservation Commission, which was created in 2011, helps guide these efforts. The group can provide advice and resources for people looking to restore older homes and buildings. Additionally, members brainstorm ways to promote the town’s history.
Throughout Preservation Month, the “City of McGregor, IA” Facebook page will highlight some of the places that tell the McGregor story. The remainder of 2021 will also serve as a celebration of the city’s platting, and some activities are in the works.
“We want to get history into the public eye,” said Pettit. “It’s wonderful when people care about history and preserving it.”
