“1142” Book Signing

IOWA CITY, IOWA, April 25, 2009, a pictorial history of one of Iowa City’s Landmarks, 1142 E. Court Street is now available. On Saturday, May 9th, the author, Richard A. King and current owner, James P. Hayes will be signing copies of “1142”at Prairie Lights Books, 15 S. Dubuque Street, Iowa City from Noon until 2:00pm.

The book provides a rare, in-depth history of one of Iowa City’s most famous homes. “1142”, commonly known as the Grant Wood House, was built in 1858 by Iowa pioneer, Nicholas Oakes who is best known for manufacturing bricks in Iowa City. In 1935, Grant Wood discovered the house and set about restoring the building. However, it was not until 1975, when Jim Hayes purchased the house that renovation and restoration of the historical spirit of the house began in depth. Today, the house embodies the eloquence of the Oakes era, the creative additions made by Grant Wood and Hayes’ design changes that are sensitive to the history of the house while providing a more contemporary look and feel to the interior.

“Jim’s restoration of 1142 E Court is a real gift to the people of Iowa City,” commented Jackie Briggs, president of Friends of Historic Preservation. “ His focus on people and history provided a depth of understanding to guiding the restoration of “1142” that transformed the house into an artistic treasure.”

The program is being offered by Friends of Historic Preservation an as part of Irving B. Weber Days and National Historic Preservation Month.