Posted by CC on November 9th, 2008 1:16 pm
Listed on the IHPA’s Most Endangered in 1998, Historic All Saints church in Stuart continues to rise from the ashes of the hate crime that nearly destroyed it in 1995. Construction crews have begun preparations for lifting a new dome into place. Originally, the Byzantine structure boasted Italian marble, stained-glass windows, and hand-painted frescos. Although these features will never be fully replaced, Project Restore Foundation is in the midst of a $2.5 million restoration that will give a home to the Saints Center for Culture and the Arts. The center will be home to a Learning Museum of Religious Tolerance, featuring educational kiosks and programming. The center will also host events, including weddings, concerts, and meetings. The lead architect is Kirk Blunck of HLKB Architecture in Des Moines and the restoration is being funded in part by a Vision Iowa CAT grant, a grant from the United States Department of Agriculture, and additional funding by the Iowa Area Development Group, the Guthrie County Community Foundation, private donors, and the City of Stuart. The project is expected to be complete in time to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the first dedication of the building in 1910. Information about the foundation and center can be found online at www.restoreallsaints.org and www.saintscenter.com.
