August H. Bergman House
A rare Mission Revival residence in Iowa, this 1909 house showcases the regional work of a celebrated Des Moines architectural firm and reflects the prosperity of its owner, a washing machine investor and state legislator.
At a glance
The August H. Bergman House stands as the only known Mission Revival design by the architectural partnership Proudfoot & Bird. Built in 1909 for $17,000, it exemplifies early twentieth-century residential elegance in central Iowa.
History
August H. Bergman accumulated wealth as an investor in washing machine companies, including the industrial giant Maytag. His prominence extended to public service: he served in the Iowa Senate from 1922 to 1930, where he championed the gasoline tax that funded road improvements across the state. The house, constructed by builder R. P. Rasmussen, reflects Bergman’s standing in Newton’s business and political circles. It was individually listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1989, then designated a contributing property to the First Avenue East Historic District in 2020.
What you see
The residence displays signature Mission Revival features: a hipped red tile roof, stucco walls with stone trim, and a full-length single-story porch sheltered by a pergola. A belvedere and Mission-shaped dormers punctuate the exterior, while broad eaves provide shadow and proportion to the composition.
Cultural significance
This house represents a rare regional expression of Mission Revival architecture, a style more commonly associated with California. Its presence in Iowa underscores the firm Proudfoot & Bird’s sophistication and the cosmopolitan aspirations of early twentieth-century Iowa entrepreneurs.
Key facts
- Country: United States
- City: Newton, Iowa
- Coordinates: 41.69916667, −93.04555556
- Completed: 1909
- Architect: Proudfoot & Bird (Des Moines)
- National Register: Listed 1989
- Historic District: First Avenue East Historic District (2020)
Practical information & getting there
The house is located in Newton, Iowa, a town in Jasper County in central Iowa. Visitors should verify accessibility and visiting hours with local tourism resources or contact the Newton Chamber of Commerce.
Sources & resources
- August H. Bergman House — Wikipedia
- Cultural Heritage Online
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