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2012 Conference in Mason City, Iowa
October 10-14, 2012
While early in his career, Frank Lloyd Wright began to design buildings that would have an international influence and that have long been considered internationally significant as well as quintessentially American. But he can also be examined as first and foremost an architect of the Midwest. That region was not only his home and the setting for the majority of his work, it was also a place to which he responded with particular acuity throughout his long career. The topography and climate of the Midwest, the natural materials suitable for building, the pervasiveness of its landscape of rural areas and small towns and the individualism harbored by many of its residents–all are embodied in his designs. Moreover, the Midwest was where Wright had the greatest impact on colleagues, both those who had worked for him and others who were inspired by his example.
Over 400 participants, homeowners and volunteers took part in the Conservancy's annual conference in Mason City, Iowa. Highlights of the conference included a benefit dinner at the recently restored Historic Park Inn Hotel and City National Bank (1909-1910) as well as tours of several other Wright structures: Stockman House (1908); Walter House (1945); Grant House (1946); and Miller House (1946). The conference culminated in the presentation of the Wright Spirit Awards, the Conservancy's highest honor, at a gala dinner on Saturday, October 13. In addition to the architectural tours and evening events, 16 speakers presented on topics ranging from the funding challenges involved in the restoration of the Historic Park Inn Hotel and City National Bank to the influence of other Prairie architects in Mason City and the Midwest.
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Stockman House (Wright 1908). Photo by Bob McCoy.
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Park Inn Hotel and City National Bank (Wrigh 1909-1910). Photo by John Clouse.
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Grant House (Wright 1946). Photo by John Clouse.
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Miller House (Wright 1946). Photo by John Clouse.
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Walter House (1945). Photo courtesy of Cedar Rock.
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