Algona offers many must-see destinations for artists and art appreciators. Craft your own self-guided tour of Algona with these creative ideas.
Louis Sullivan Building
In downtown Algona, be sure to make a stop at the Louis Sullivan building, which serves as the home of the Algona Area Chamber of Commerce. One of only eight such architectural masterpieces in the Midwest, this building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Commissioned and built in 1913 by Algona businessman Henry C. Adams as a land and loan office, the structure located at 123 East State Street has been the object of architectural interest for decades. Adams hired Sullivan, whose most famous pupil was Frank Lloyd Wright, at a time when Sullivan had branched into designing rural banks. Adams sold the building in 1921 to Al Falkenhainer, founder of Druggists Mutual, now Pharmacists Mutual. The company remained there until 1971, when it moved to its present location north of Algona on U.S. Highway 18.
POW-Produced Art Pieces
The Camp Algona POW Museum recounts the history of Algona’s Prisoner of War camp, Kossuth County military veterans, and stories of the prisoners who were hosted at the camp between April 1944 and February 1946. The museum also features a bounty of artwork created by the POWs during their stay in the camp, including fascinating paintings, sketches, crafts and ink drawings. Nearby at the Kossuth County Fairgrounds, visitors are drawn to Algona’s Nativity Scene. This collection of 65 one-half life size figures were built by Eduard Kaib, Horst Wendlandt, Eric Knoll and three friends who were Prisoners of War at Camp Algona. When the war ended, they donated the scene to the town of Algona. Today the Nativity Scene is under the care of the First United Methodist Church of Algona. Check the museum’s website and social media page for hours of operation.
Experience Algona’s Murals
Algona sports impressive murals throughout the city, including the Sunshine Park mural located on the side of 213 E. State Street. Designed by Emma Plathe, the mural was completed in 2019 and brings a sunny pocket of color into Algona’s downtown area. You can’t miss the community mural located on Nebraska Street, from Dodge to Thorington Street. This multi-building mural was designed by Algona artist Mindy Lichter and painted with the help of the 2018 Leadership Algona class. With bright colors and designs that capture the essence of Algona, you’ll certainly want to stop by for a closer look. Visit Algona City Hall during business hours to see the Daily Bread mural by Francis Robert White. The mural was commissioned in 1941 for Algona’s post office, relocated to the library, and now resides in City Hall. This prominent painting features a beautiful depiction of working-class life.
Arts and Craft Events
Looking for ways to connect with and support local artists? Many events are hosted in Algona throughout the years. The Algona Area Chamber of Commerce holds the Autumnfest Craft Show in October at Algona High School, featuring a wide array of crafts, art and other items. The Stinson Prairie Arts Council coordinates a summer Art in the Park in July as part of the community’s Founders’ Day celebration, as well as other events featuring local creatives. Find more information on Facebook or the Chamber’s website at www.algona.org.
Creative Spaces and Places
The Community & Culture Connections Center offers a free and open to the public art studio, as well as art classes for all ages. Whether you’re interested in a session or just need a place to settle in and doodle, the Center is a welcoming space that is available to everyone. The Carnegie Centre for the Arts is a work in progress on Nebraska Street. This beautiful building is currently under construction and will be available in the future for art activities and opportunities.