Owl's Head - by Sondra Ashmore & Christine Guzzo Vickery (Hardcover)
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<p/><br></br><p><b> Book Synopsis </b></p></br></br><p>Owl's Head - A Hidden Gem</em> tells the stories of a unique Des Moines neighborhood that has maintained the charms of childhood dreams while also housing many who have blazed new trails.</p><p><br></p><p>Nestled behind major roadway Grand Avenue on Des Moines' west side is a quaint historic neighborhood - Owl's Head. Spanning only about one square block in size, one would never guess this unassuming enclave would have so many fascinating stories to tell. Owl's Head began as a streetcar suburb not long after Iowa became a state in 1846. The homes were built by notable architects of the time with a focus on style, entertaining, and accommodations for staff. It was a haven where affluential residents could escape their downtown career and enjoy the relaxation of nearby parks.</p><p><br></p><p>Owl's Head has been the home to pioneers who influenced journalism, politics, art, and business innovation at the local, state, and national level. One of the more prominent homes was the official residence of the Iowa governor for 28 years. It is not uncommon for several generations of families to live in the neighborhood or to meet a resident who has resided in their home for well over 40 years. Residents in the neighborhood have socialized with prominent figures such as Louis Armstrong and Theodore Roosevelt. An annual neighborhood Labor Day party has been a tradition since Owl's Head became a historic district in the late 1970s.</p><p><br></p><p>We invite you to take a stroll through the neighborhood and discover for yourself what makes Owl's Head such a hidden gem.</p><p><br></p><p/><br></br><p><b> Review Quotes </b></p></br></br><br><p>"As a third generation resident of the Owls Head neighborhood, I found this book not only historically informative but delightful as well - a pleasure to read!" - Dr. Lorn Matthews</p><p><br></p><p>"To paraphrase Sarah Anderson, old homes have souls. Sondra Ashmore and Christine Guzzo Vickery have given voice to these. From observations about the architecture to recitations of historical events to stories about the everyday lives of those who have and do live in Owl's Head, you are welcomed in for a cup of tea. So sit down, enjoy the beauty of these homes, meet the people who built them and slip into the vibrant community that is Owl's Head. It will be a lovely visit." - Lorraine May, Owl's Head Resident</p><p><br></p><p>"This book is an extremely outstanding collection of historical treasures that few people know anything about. I discovered so much from the interesting family histories and learned more about the business and community ties of those living in Owls Head. I am so proud of my great grandparents, W.W. and Mary Witmer, who were the original developers of what is now a National Historic District. My Tone and Witmer families lived in four different homes in this neighborhood. They built the anchor house at 29th and Grand which is also where my grandparents were married and lived for a while. It later became home to six of Iowa's Governors. In recent years it serves as a place for meetings and parties, a perfect place for my family and friends and The Young Wolfe Tones from Dublin, Ireland, to join me to celebrate my 75th birthday. I know a lot of my school friends who grew up in Owls Head will be smiling with their memories when they read this book. Well done." - John Tone</p><br>
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