Hacker Nelson & Co. will receive a Historic Preservation Award

The Decorah Historic Preservation Commission will present an award May 13th to Hacker Nelson & Co. for its rehabilitation of the exterior of its building on Water Street.

Commission Chair Mark Muggli praised the accounting firm for "architectural sensitivity and great community spirit in restoring the elaborate stonework that graces the building's corner turret."

Hacker Nelson CPA Neil Schraeder says extensive work was performed by Ralph Brown and his crew from Full House Restoration of Sherrill, Iowa.  The contractor replaced bricks and limestone blocks that had eroded or deteriorated over the years, rebuilding the turret on the building from the roof down.  Replacement bricks had to be specially cut because of the rounded shape of the building. 

"We felt this was a landmark in Decorah," says Schraeder, who added, "We're pleased with the results."

The May 13th recognition will be held at 4:30 p.m. at Java John's.  A brief program will be followed by a public reception.