See inside the historic Whittier schoolhouse that will become community center
Addison Lathers
Des Moines Register
Whittier Elementary underwent a 4-classroom brick expansion in 1904 that more than doubled its square-footage.
Addison Lathers
The brick masonry and stone accent detailing is over 100 years old.
Addison Lathers
The original wooden schoolhouse still stands and is attached to the back of the building.
Addison Lathers
The classrooms downstairs will be transformed into a cafe with pop-up retail and seating.
Addison Lathers
The mural, intalled by the Boys & Girls Club, will be preserved.
Addison Lathers
One of the second-story classrooms served as a mini gymnasium for the Boys & Girls Club.
Addison Lathers
The classrooms on the second floor of the brick schoolhouse will be rented out as a way to generate income for the Greenleaf Center.
Addison Lathers
Kelli Lydon, a historic preservation consultant and founder of the Greenleaf Center, discusses future plans for the original wooden portion of the Whittier Elementary School, built in 1875.
Addison Lathers
The Greenleaf Center plans to spruce up an existing basketball court and add a pergola nearby for shade in the summer.
Addison Lathers