G. F. Heuser Memorial

On March 3, 1960, the CIASI board adopted a resolution to honor Gottfried F. Heuser (August 21, 1867 –  January 1958) by building (1963) and dedicating (1976) a memorial near the lily pond in Riverside Park.

IN MEMORY OF G. F. HEUSER, CIVIC LEADER, FOUNDER, AND FIRST PRESIDENT OF THE CIVIC IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIATION OF SPILLVILLE IOWA IN RIVERSIDE PARK

Mr. Heuser was instrumental in Spillville’s incorporation on November 9, 1894. He served as the town’s mayor from 1908 – 1928 and accomplished many progressive improvements. G. F. Heuser was at the center of all things Spillville, including Riverside Park and the promotion of the arts, concert performances, and culture. He was instrumental in the formation of CIASI and served two terms as president, from 1919-1942 and from 1950-1954. He loved nature and beautified the town by planting trees that shaded and bordered the streets. He loved music, promoted musical performances in the park, and initiated the annual Dvořák Music Festival.