06 WEEKLY 2026
APRIL
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B A L D W I N
C I T Y
VOL 4 NO. 12 FREE DIGITAL VERSION
N E W S P A P E R
RAISE A GLASS TO THE BRICKS:
STEWARDSHIP OF THE IVES HARTLEY LUMBER BUILDING
Angie Spielman.Susie and Bob Martin gather to paint at the historic Lumber Yard Arts Center in September 2024, beginning restoration work that includes fresh paint and exterior improvements; Rudy Sudja works on window restoration during the September 2024 painting project; Hometown Construction installs new guttering along the east side of the building in September 2025, continuing phased exterior upgrades.
In the heart of downtown Baldwin City, the historic Ives Hartley Lumberyard building has stood since 1914, serving as both a symbol of the town’s past and a cornerstone of its creative future. Today, as home to the Lumberyard Arts Center (LAC), the building continues to serve the community in vibrant ways thanks to ongoing restoration efforts and the dedication of volunteers and supporters. Stewardship of this landmark— recognized as eligible for the Register of Historic Kansas Places—is a core responsibility of the LAC’s governing board. Their work ensures the
preservation of the building’s historic character while maintaining its role as a community resource. The current effort, Phase II of a threephase restoration project, focuses on critical exterior improvements. Working with local restoration expert Rudy Sudja and Baldwin City’s Hometown Construction team, the LAC prioritized weatherproofing, gutter replacement, and tuck pointing to strengthen the structure and prevent water damage. These upgrades address damage caused by winter storms in 2025 and the deterioration of mortar between the
building’s bricks—issues that could lead to more costly repairs if left unaddressed. By tackling them together, the project improves efficiency while reinforcing the building’s long-term integrity. Work began in June 2025 on the south façade, with additional help from Patrick Deitz, who worked under Sudja’s mentorship. The project is now about 90 percent complete, with final work on the east façade expected by June 2026. Despite occasional weather delays, progress has remained steady. Phase II builds on Phase I, completed last summer, which included
restoration of the main entrance doors and repainting of the front façade by volunteers. This effort highlighted the strong community support behind the arts center. The $22,000 project has been funded through grants from the Douglas County Community Foundation, the Douglas County Natural and Cultural Heritage Conservation Council, and the City of Baldwin City’s façade program. To celebrate the milestone, the LAC will host “Raise a Glass to the Bricks” on April 17 at 5:30 p.m., beginning with a ribbon cutting followed by an indoor gathering to recognize volunteers, donors, and members. Beyond preservation, the project reflects a broader vision. The south half of the building now includes a courtyard, gallery, classroom, office space, and kitchen—made possible through strong community support. Looking ahead, the LAC’s “Long Live the Lumberyard” initiative aims to complete the north portion of the building, creating a flexible makerspace and performing arts venue connected to Sullivan Square. This expansion will allow for more programming and help position Baldwin City as a growing cultural destination. Community members can support the LAC through memberships, volunteering, attending programs, or contributing financially. Naming opportunities and a brick fundraiser also offer ways to leave a lasting legacy. As the Lumberyard Arts Center celebrates its restored bricks, it also celebrates the collective effort of a community committed to preserving its history while building its creative future.