A project was recently completed for a Washington landmark. Woodlawn Cemetery, listed on the National Register of Historic Places – is now home to a new shelter and gate. On December 5, the Washington Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting in recognition of the restoration project being completed. The shelter was constructed with local funds by the Washington Improvement League, founded in 1915 by some of Washington’s leading women.

The restoration project was done in part by a Resource Enhancement and Protection –Historical Resource Development Grant with the State Historical Society of Iowa. Matching funds were provided by the City of Washington. The grant was awarded in 2018, and work was completed in 2022. The project summary statement included: “Our goal is to be an example of proper preservation practices and to showcase the important role that these structures play in our community.” Work included replacing and repairing the shelter roof, repairing and replacing stone caps, cleaning the stones, tuckpointing stone, and repairing stucco cracks. The Historic Preservation Commission is in discussions to continue restoration work and pursue additional educational programs.