The basement of the historic Elks Building in the 700 block of Second Street in Webster City has been cleared of contents, ready for it's next life.

Sometimes, progress isn’t obvious.

Sometimes, it’s hidden behind a construction curtain.

But it’s progress, just the same.

Darcy Swon wants you to know that behind the facade that has stretched across the front of the historic Elks Building in downtown Webster City for much of the summer, the work of revitalizing the brick icon has ground on.

Some of that work isn’t pretty.

Heck, much of that work isn’t pretty.

But it’s ongoing, fired up by the faith that restoring a key piece of Webster City’s downtown will be worth all the trouble.

“Demolition in the basement is nearing completion and they will soon be advancing to the main floor,” Swon said in a media release. “Repairs to the front sidewalk and outside staircase are underway, ensuring future stability and eliminating any sloping issues. In the upcoming weeks, work will begin on plumbing the building.”

Swon is a part of LIFT WC, the nonprofit organization that has committed itself to community betterment, in this case renovating a building originally constructed in 1906.

It is an expensive undertaking.

“To further bolster efforts, the Enhance Hamilton County Foundation has issued a Challenge Grant, promising to match dollar-for-dollar on all donations received up to $150,000,” Swon said. “Donations are now being accepted and can be made by sending a check made out to LIFT WC to Enhance Hamilton County Foundation, 501 Bank Street, Webster City, IA 50595, or by donating online at desmoinesfoundation.org/LiftWC. All donations are tax deductible.”

With the Elks Building, the immediate goal is to have the basement and main floors completed by June 2024.

“Support from the community continues to be a crucial part of this project,” she said.

She added that one of LIFT’s biggest annual fundraisers — Taste of Fall — will be on October 1 this year.

“This event promises an evening of community, delicious food, and unity in support of the rehabilitation project,” she said.

“The Enhance Hamilton County Foundation’s Challenge Grant, Taste of Fall fundraising dinner, and continued support from the community are pivotal in making this vision a reality as this building project is bigger than the rehabilitation project itself. Once the building is operational it will assist with:

“Investment in Community Growth: Funds generated from the use of the event venue space will be channeled back into the community, facilitating improvements through grants, microloans, innovative programming, and the rejuvenation of additional historical buildings.

“Boosting the Local Economy: The completed event venue is expected to be a vibrant gathering spot, drawing visitors downtown and providing a stimulating environment that will benefit existing businesses and attract new commercial interest.

“Beautifying and Building Partnerships: With its aesthetic enhancements and opportunities for collaboration, the project is poised to enrich downtown’s visual appeal and forge meaningful connections with local service providers.

“Preserving a Cherished Landmark: The Elks Building holds a special place in the hearts of many residents who have shared memories and connections to the structure. This restoration honors those memories and fulfills the community’s desire to see a cherished landmark revitalized.”

She added, “LIFT WC is dedicated to community betterment by fostering community development and preserving the cultural heritage of Webster City. Through engagement, partnership, and hard work, LIFT WC continues to be a driving force in revitalizing the community’s most cherished spaces.”