Iowa Commission for the Blind Building

The Iowa Commission for the Blind Building is an historic building located in downtown Des Moines, Iowa. The building is a steel-framed structure covered in brick. It is a nine-story state government office building that rises 95 feet (29 m) above the ground.[2]

Iowa Commission for the Blind Building
Iowa Commission for the Blind Building is located in Iowa
Iowa Commission for the Blind Building
Iowa Commission for the Blind Building is located in the United States
Iowa Commission for the Blind Building
Location524 4th St.,
Des Moines, Iowa
Coordinates41°35′20″N 93°37′22″W
Arealess than one acre
Built1913
ArchitectProudfoot, Bird & Rawson
Architectural styleClassical Revival
NRHP reference No.09000714[1]
Added to NRHPJuly 1, 2010

History

The building was completed in 1913 for use by the YMCA.[3] It was designed by the Des Moines architectural firm of Proudfoot, Bird & Rawson in the Neoclassical style. When the YMCA moved to their present location in 1959, the state acquired the building for the Iowa Commission for the Blind. It was here that the commission, under the direction of Dr. Kenneth Jernigan transformed rehabilitation services for the blind in the state into what became known as the Iowa Model. It is based on the belief that with the proper training and opportunity, the blind can live productive and successful lives.[3] The building was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2000.[1]

References

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