Municipal Building
The Conde City Council has applied to the state of South Dakota to have the Conde Municipal Building placed on the National Register of Historic Places. Community members have begun restoration plans and an attempt to restore the building to its former glory.
The Conde Alumni Association supported the restoration efforts through a fundraising raffle.
- 2023 Can Am Defender HD7 winners were Bill and Penny Hearnen.
- $15,000 donated from the raffle proceeds
- $5,200 donated from the Live Auction proceeds
- $3,465 donated from the Silent Auction proceeds
- $4,000 donated by the Duenwald Family in honor of Clarice Duenwald
- $2,500 donated by Agtegra
- $230 donated by individuals
- TOTAL of $30,395 in donations during the Reunion
A note from Ann (Taylor) Hearnen (605-382-5881), who has been instrumental in the research and application process:
The Conde community was blessed with this structure in 1917 when early citizens felt a civic center was needed. Entertainment at that time was a big thing and the town was ill equipped to provide it. It was probably the single biggest thing Conde ever did to set it apart from other small communities. It was a very modern structure for its time, considered a masterpiece designed by George Fossum of Aberdeen, one of the states leading architects. Most of the community's social events were held there including vaudeville shows, silent movies, dances, Memorial Day ceremonies, talent shows, school plays etc. It also housed the first fire hall, city offices and jail.
This structure is in need of extensive renovation to preserve it, shingles, electrical, cleaning, painting, floor repair, etc. Present day residents desire to restore the style and beauty of this grand old structure. We will be applying for grants to help with the renovation. Our ancestors of the early 1900's must have been very proud to construct such a landmark. With that same pride, we wish to bring it back to life for future generations to appreciate and enjoy.
The Municipal building will be open and welcome visitors during the school reunion. Anyone with fundraising ideas, grants, etc. are welcome for consideration as well as any donations.
If you have old photos of the Municipal Building or events held there, please upload them to this photo album.
You can see videos of Marion Jensen sharing his memories of the Municipal Building on his page on this site using this link.