The North of Grand (NOG) Neighborhood Association honors its roots with the photography exhibit “Take a Trip Through History: An Exhibit of Images Since 1879” in September at Scottish Rite Park in Des Moines.
The exhibit will be on display Sept. 3-28, 2012, in the Scottish Rite Park Art Gallery, 2909 Woodland Avenue. Public hours are Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. There is no admission fee.
As part of historic research conducted in 2011-2012, NOG leaders have been able to uncover the fascinating stories of NOG residents past and present in order to piece together a glimpse of early development in Des Moines, the effects of which can still be seen today. This historically-rich area located between 31st and 42nd streets, 1-235 and Grand Avenue, is a safe, affordable, tree-lined neighborhood that is desirable due to its proximity to Ingersoll shops, restaurants, the bus line, well-established churches, quality schools and historic architecture.
The research was compiled into a nomination for the Greenwood Park Plats Historic District (from 39th-42nd, Grand Ave. – Center Street) for listing on the National Register of Historic Places. The State Nominations Review Committee will review the nomination prior to submission to the National Park Service, which oversees the National Register. This photography exhibit draws attention to the project and the research that took place and was collected. It is a collaborative effort by the North of Grand Neighborhood Association and the Community Development Department at the City of Des Moines, and supported in part by the State Historical Society of Iowa, Historical Resource Development Program; Polk County; Drake University; private donations and volunteer resources.
About Scottish Rite Park
Opened in 1973, Scottish Rite Park is a 12-story, 168-unit building which sits on 10 acres of land on Des Moines’ near-west side. As a senior living community, Scottish Rite Park offers residents an attractive and active retirement setting.
The property was originally owned by James Callanan, a successful businessman, upon which he built his home in 1876 (pictured). For decades, it was among Des Moines’ finest homes. After Callanan’s death in 1904, the home became Hills Retreat for the mentally afflicted (1905). About 1948, it was renamed Hillcrest Hospital, and served the same purpose until it merged with Lutheran Hospital’s psychiatric unit and closed for good in 1964. Shortly thereafter it was torn down and replaced by Scottish Rite Park.
About the North of Grand Neighborhood
The North of Grand Neighborhood in Des Moines, Iowa, is located between 31st Street (east) and 42nd Street (west), and between I-235 (north) and Grand Avenue (south).
NOG’s mission is to ensure that existing and projected infrastructure systems are managed or developed so they enhance the physical, visual and spatial qualities of the neighborhood —promoting a healthy climate for area businesses, and public and private properties.