The Dexter Community House (aka Roundhouse) was built in 1916 through the effort of several prominent members of the community. The idea was fostered by a tabernacle that had been constructed for temporary use in the early 1900’s as a place for revival meetings, social gatherings and entertainment of the time. When the temporary structure was removed, its loss was keenly felt and the proposition o
f a community building was placed before the people. Subscriptions were made, and when at last enough money was pledged, plans were drawn for a public building of such uniqueness and size that it was deemed the first of its kind on the American Continent. The architect was Major Matthew Leander King, Grandfather of actor Nick Nolte. Total cost of the building was $10,000. It was divided into $5.00 shares and no one person was allowed to own more than 60 shares of stock. The first managing board was made up of seven people: two members from each church, one from a farm program group representing the rural farm community, one from the school board, and one from town council. There were 188 names on the original list of stockholders who had purchased from 1 to 60 shares. The 100’ x 68’ building appears to be round at ground level, and is commonly referred to as the “Roundhouse”. But, in fact, the building is elliptical. It is constructed of hollow blocks throughout. The roof is domed without support except at the walls. Rumors and fears about the impending collapse of the roof began before construction was even completed. In order to alleviate these fears, cars were driven up board ramps onto the roof to prove the strength and durability of the seemingly unsupported dome. The interior offers an entrance with a box office at the South end of the ellipse, and at the opposite end, a fully equipped stage with footlights, stage lights and landscape scenery. Beneath the stage were three dressing rooms, two coal bins and a library. The huge auditorium proved more than adequate for Lyceum courses, Chautauqua assemblies, revival meetings, entertainment, political and social gatherings, moving pictures, religious services and a host of other events. Succeeding years saw extensive use by the Dexter School District. Because of the excellent acoustics and seating capacity, the building was used for various activities including musical presentations, school plays and graduation ceremonies. Before completion of the new High School, basketball games, including sectional tournaments were held in the facility with bleacher seating for 1,000 spectators. The 90+ year old building was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1975 and in 2002 was included on the list of Most Endangered Properties by the Iowa Historic Preservation Alliance. The Roundhouse continues to be a popular site for a variety of community and social functions such as dances, talent and variety shows, theatrical productions, recitals, plays, wedding and anniversary receptions, reunions, church services, club meetings, dinners, bazaars, fitness and sports activities, and a multitude of other events. The building, which is owned by the City of Dexter, is operated and maintained by the Dexter Community House Board. The Board has worked since 1985 to keep the facility in usable condition. Major and minor repairs to the roof & chimney, the exterior, the windows & sills, the doors & locks, and interior have been made with money raised through an assortment of fundraisers. In the fall of 2001, a full-blown campaign for a complete restoration was begun. Grant applications were made and several major fund raising events were held. The 1st phase of the five phase project was completed in the fall of 2001 with the installation of a new roof membrane. The 2nd phase included work on the inside removing all of the plaster on the ceiling and applying a paint sealant, masonry work around the top of the walls and outside around the corbel. Phase 3 was completed late in the fall of 2007 through an HSPG grant and matching funds raised by the Community House Board. Work included a new heating and air conditioning geo thermal system and new electrical. Also the South wall was moved inward 7 feet to accommodate an accessible restroom, a small kitchen, an office area and a storage room. There is also a mezzanine area to provide audio and lighting for future stage productions. The front entryway was also included with wall lights for planned display cases and new access to the original box office. Phase four will consist of ceiling insulation and energy efficient windows & doors. To this day, the Dexter Community House remains an architectural wonder of engineering technology. Each first visit by an architect, engineer, contractor or even the general public elicits a jaw dropping “WOW” upon entering the auditorium with its 30’ high dome. It is thought to be the only building of its kind in the state and possibly the nation. Our renovation work is ongoing and any and all contributions of cash, offers of help or donations of any kind are greatly appreciated.
