What is the Brummer Legacy Foundation?

The Brummer Legacy Foundation is a non-profit corporation started by a group of Cherokee residents committed to the acquisition, preservation, and restoration of the J.H. Brummer Building located in Downtown Cherokee, Iowa. 

What are the goals of the Brummer Legacy Foundation?

The Brummer building is an integral part of our historic downtown community.  The goals of our foundation include to restore the Brummer Building in a historically accurate manner, with the intent to provide quality retail and public space, lessen the burden on local government, and prevent commercial deterioration. 

Has the Foundation purchased the Brummer building?

The Foundation has entered into a contract with the current building owner for an option to purchase the Brummer Building. This option will be exercised assuming the Foundation is able to raise the necessary funds to do so.

What are the most pressing issues for the structure of the Brummer Building? 

While a new roof was put on in approximately 2010, a number of issues have arisen. The roof needs to be extended over the parapets to prevent any water from damaging the pink quartzite walls. Further, the quartzite needs to be secured and tuck pointed to ensure the building is safe and secure. These are the first goals of the Foundation after acquisition. Our intent is to begin these repairs as soon as possible, (COMPLETED SPRING 2022).

What does the Foundation intend to do with the Brummer Building long term?

• Phase II of our plan involves restoration and renovation of the first floor retail spaces to house reputable businesses and make the Brummer an integral part of the downtown economy.  Our goal is to start this work early 2022.  

• Phase III involves restoration of the second floor for use as office or work spaces.  

• Phase IV involves restoration of the third floor for use as either event, restaurant, bar, or business space.  

• Our overreaching intent is to maintain and preserve the historical aspects of the Brummer.