(Polk County) -- The Des Moines Heritage Trust (DMHT) has announced its list of the seven most endangered buildings in 2024. The non-profit releases a list each year in an effort to preserve historic and culturally significant buildings. One of the new additions is the former Nagle one room school in Ankeny, which was built in 1900.
“These seven buildings are part of the cultural fabric of our region and have touched the lives of several generations that came before us and all of that will be lost if these buildings aren’t preserved,” said Tim Waddell, President of the Des Moines Heritage Trust. “As we saw with those buildings on last year’s list, we aren’t going to be able to save all of them; however, we can make a difference. As neighbors and community leaders we can encourage reinvestment of those buildings that have played an important part in the development and growth of our neighborhoods, communities and the families who shopped, worked, lived and even learned in these buildings.”
The seven most endangered building in 2024 are:
• George the Chili King: 5722 Hickman Road, Des Moines - (built 1952)
• I.O.O.F. Hall/Drug Store: 200 Euclid Avenue, Des Moines - (built 1907)
• George Peak Home: 1080 22nd Street, Des Moines - (built 1900)
• Salvation Army Building (former Nabisco building): 219 E. Court, Des Moines (built 1920)
• Butler Apartments (former Gas Lamp): 1501 Grand Avenue/510 Fifteenth Street, Des Moines - (built 1906)
• The Jefferson Apartments: 1519 Grand Avenue, Des Moines - (built 1915)
• Nagle School: 2715 SW Oralabor Road, Ankeny - (built 1900)
The Des Moines Heritage Trust has compiled a brief history for each property.