Cedar Rock

When Iowa businessman Lowell Walter died in August of 1981, he and his wife, Agnes, left their dream home, Cedar Rock, to the Iowa Conservation Commission and the people of Iowa. Designed by the famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright, the residence lies on a limestone bluff overlooking the Wapsipinicon River near Quasqueton in Buchanan County. The Walter house was one of Wright's most complete designs. Nearly everything at Cedar Rock bears the architect's imprint. Wright designed the furniture, selected the carpets, chose the draperies and even picked out the accessories. Cedar Rock was begun in 1948 and completed in 1950. It's roof and floors are concrete; the walls are brick, glass and walnut. Cedar Rock is one of nine Wright designed residences in Iowa. There is also a bank and hotel designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in the state. Of all the Wrights designs in Iowa, Cedar Rock is the only home chosen by Wright to bear his coveted signature tile. The Walter house is an example of a simplified style of house Frank Lloyd Wright developed and called "Usonian". The plan for the Walter house follows the characteristic "tadpole" form, typical of Wright's Usonian homes - the bedroom wing of the house constituting the tail of the "tadpole" and the living/dining room the head. The house is one story and the overall length is about 150 feet. Everything about the Walter residence is compact and efficient - everything, that is, but the combination living/dining room which Wright called "the Garden Room". The Garden Room covers more than 900 square feet and has a fireplace which can hold five-foot logs. The view of the river and wooded valley, through the Garden Room's three glass walls, is breathtaking. Glass doors open directly from living areas to ground-level terraces. Natural light fills the house. Broad overhangs with upturned edges soften sunlight and shade the glass walls. There are openings in the overhangs covered with vines for summer shade. Clerestory windows are incorporated in every room to brighten interior spaces and release hot air trapped near the ceiling. Recessed artificial lighting creates the effect of natural light, even at night. The Walters were justifiably proud of Cedar Rock. Very little has been altered on the estate since its construction and the structure and furnishings are in good condition. The Walters wished to assure preservation of the residence. They established a private trust fund that has several charitable obligations ahead of, but including Cedar Rock. This year adults are asked to donate $5 to help it in its efforts to assist with operational funding. Your support is not only crucial; it is appreciated by all who enjoy this Wright designed jewel. The Walter Residence and the Visitor Center are open to the public Memorial Day Weekend into October, Wednesday through Sunday. Guided tours of the house depart the Visitor Center on the hour from 10:00 a.m. through 3:00 p.m. We request you please reserve your party's tour. All tour requests need size of party, with desired date and time. Include a contact name and telephone number so that we may confirm your selection or possibly reschedule. The park telephone number is 319-934-3572 or email cedar_rock@dnr.iowa.gov. . Walk-ins are accepted only as space permits. School group tours are available, please contact the park for further information.