Celebrating 100 Years of Clark Tower | Ellen Wade & Linda Smith

<p>Welcome to Bridging the Gap, the Madison County Chamber podcast, where local stories, businesses, and community connections come together. In this episode, we sit down with Ellen Wade, Chair of the Friends of Winterset Parks and Recreation, and Linda Smith, local historian and member of the planning committee, to explore the story behind Clark Tower and the community effort to celebrate its 100th anniversary. From the Clark family&#39;s original 1925 vision to the stonemasons who quarried and built the tower by hand, Ellen and Linda share how this hidden landmark became one of Winterset&#39;s most beloved traditions. We also discuss the returning Clark family descendants, the newly restored Bennett Cabin, a full weekend of centennial festivities, and why preserving local landmarks matters now more than ever.In this episode, we cover:The history and mission of the Friends of Winterset Parks and RecreationHow the Clark family built Clark Tower by hand in 1925 and 1926Why the Clark family, who were stonemasons, chose stone for the towerThe tower&#39;s role as a memorial to Ruth and Caleb ClarkPlans for the August 7 and 8 centennial celebration weekendThe ticketed Friday night fundraiser dinner and the lighting of the towerThe free Saturday family fun day with music, food trucks, and history talksA reunion photo with 30 to 60 returning Clark family descendantsThe newly restored Bennett Cabin, furnished with period piecesA 5K trail run past Clark Tower, the covered bridge, and the stone bridgeParking and logistics for the big weekendWhy preserving landmarks like Clark Tower matters for future generationsWhether you&#39;re a Madison County history buff, a longtime park visitor, or someone curious about the stories behind our local landmarks, this episode offers a behind the scenes look at what it takes to bring a century old tradition back to life.Learn more &amp; connect:Friends of Winterset Parks and Recreation: https://friendsofwintersetparks.orgMadison County Chamber: https://madisoncounty.comDon&#39;t forget to:👍 Like💬 Comment🔔 Subscribe for more local stories and conversations from around Madison CountySupporting local parks organizations helps preserve the landmarks and green spaces that make Madison County such a special place to call home.#MadisonCountyIA #WintersetIowa #SupportLocal #CommunityHeritage #Podcast #ClarkTower #WintersetParks #LocalHistory #IowaHistory #CentennialCelebration</p>