Old Brick Church & Community Ctr

Specialties

Old Brick’s mission is to enrich the community as a historic landmark, to serve the community as a gathering place, and to support the community as a home for Episcopal and benevolent non-​profit groups.

Located in beautiful historic downtown of Iowa City, and adjacent to the Old Capitol Building, distinctive shops, galleries and restaurants, your guests will be impressed with the hospitality and convenience of Old Brick

History

Established in 1856.

Originally built as a Presbyterian Church, Old Brick is the second oldest building in Iowa City. In the 1970s, the building was slated for demolition, but the Iowa City Community banded together to form Friends of Old Brick (which has since morphed into Friends of Historic Preservation) to save the beautiful structure. We now run as a non-​profit events center and as a hub for other Iowa City non-​profit offices.

Meet the Manager

Vero S.

Manager

As the Executive Director, Vero Smith has worked to strengthen connections between the University of Iowa, the Iowa City community, and Old Brick. Under her direction, Old Brick has launched a public art series, initiated a public lecture series, and has worked towards preserving the history of the building. She has also partnered with the University of Iowa to offer unique educational experiences for students through a variety of internships and volunteer positions, and to promote the arts and advance environmental sustainability efforts at Old Brick.

Smith strives to offer excellent customer service and make the venue a welcoming place for all people. Her goal is to inspire all clients and visitors to contribute to the preservation of local history.

She holds a master’s degree in architectural history from the University of Iowa and bachelor’s degrees in studio art, art history, and environmental studies from Augustana College (Rock Island, IL).