Brucemore kicked off Phase IV of the Mansion Envelope Restoration Project in April of 2021. This phase focuses on stabilizing the north façade of the 1880s mansion by addressing causes of deterioration in the glass, woodwork, doors, light fixtures, brick walls, and roof. This is the final phase of a larger, multi-year project that began in 2018 to preserve the iconic building and protect the works of art, furnishings, and documents housed inside the structure.
“This project reflects tremendous community support towards accelerating preservation efforts,” said Executive Director David Janssen. “This project is part of our ongoing work to ensure Brucemore remains a treasure in Eastern Iowa for the next century, and we are excited to be nearing the completion of this next step.”
In 2018, Brucemore launched Pride & Preservation, a capital campaign to support the organization’s three most critical areas of need—preservation of historic assets, investment in capital infrastructure, and improvements to security and fire initiatives. When the derecho caused more than $2.5 million in damage in August and destroyed more than 70% of the mature tree canopy, campaign funds were also allocated to support derecho recovery efforts on the 26-acre estate. Landscape restoration and major preservation projects are made possible by donations and grants from The Hall-Perrine Foundation, Iowa Economic Development Authority, and over 700 individuals and businesses.
Donations to fund preservation and landscape projects can be made online, by calling (319) 362-7375, or by sending a check to 2160 Linden Dr. SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52403.
The mansion remains open for self-guided tours of the first three floors Thursday through Sunday afternoons.