Mason began as a small farming village in 1815. Since then, it has grown exponentially, making the mission of the Mason Historical Society even more important. Perry Denehy, 11-year board of trustees member, shares that the efforts of the historical society to create, promote and preserve the history of Mason can be supported through yearly and lifetime memberships, gift shop and brick purchases, and their annual Ice Cream Social/Baked Good Auction (June) and Cemetery Walk (October). Visitors can explore the history of Mason further with printed tour guides available in front of the Alverta Green Museum with background details on historical sites like these.
The Alverta Green Museum, 207 W. Church Street
This beautifully preserved 19th-century Victorian was the home and antiques shop of lifelong-resident Alverta Green, who bequeathed the property to the Mason Historical Society in 1988. The historic district gem showcases an extensive collection of treasured artifacts and photographs of life in Mason, including yearbooks dating 1935-present. The Museum is open Thursdays from 2-5 p.m. and by appointment, and also hosts monthly guest speakers.
Sprinkles Opera House/The Mason Bank, 225 W. Main Street
Sprinkles Opera House (built in 1886 by Samuel Sprinkles) was the center of social activities in Mason, from performances to graduations, for more than 50 years. The downstairs housed The Mason Bank (later First-Mason Bank) on the left and various merchants on the right. The current owner, Fifth Third Bank, uses the original vault, while the retired Opera House upstairs is used as storage.
Mason Central School, 211 N. East Street
Mason Central School opened in 1912, originally as the high school. Additions included a 1936 stage and gymnasium, and a 1951 classroom annex. When a new high school was built in 1959, the building became a “central” school for all other grades. The Mason City School District still maintains the building and uses it as administration offices.
For more information visit: MasonHistoricalSociety.org