(ABC 6 News) – On December 15th, 2021, the town of Rudd changed forever.
Rudd Historical Society President Joyce Navratil couldn’t believe the damage when it came through. “We don’t know what we’re going to do to recover from the tornado.”
The town was struck by an EF-1 tornado that produced winds of 110 miles an hour just after 7pm.
Numerous houses suffered severe damage. These houses have been rebuilt or repaired.
Rudd Public Library’s roof was torn off, and a nearby church was also lost.
Navratil speaks out about the damage done to the church. “This whole front area of this church museum blew across into the neighbors yard. The back part, which was the fellowship area at one time for the church, survived; but, it had to be demolished because the damage was so bad.”
Since last year, Navratil faced many challenges. The most difficult was finding a contractor. “If I call them, a lot of them don’t answer my calls. A few of them have come and looked at the project, and never heard from them again.”
In the meantime, they’ve been raising money. The historical society holds a breakfast the first day every month. In September, they also hosted a fashion showcase.
Navratil loved the event, and was delighted with its success. “We had over 50 models and over 200 people there. Very strong support from the community and the surrounding area, which we greatly appreciated.”
The library has estimates that must be approved by Rudd and an architect.
The library is currently located inside the city hall. However, it has been closed for a few hours. Amy Leaman, Library President Board, elaborates. “As you can see, we have a very limited space. Our patronige is down from when we were in our own space.”
AS LONG AS THE BUDGET IS APPROVED AND THE PLAN FOR A NEW LIBRARY IS APPROVED THE RUDD PUBLIC BOOK LIBRARY WILL BE OPEN AS EARLY 2023 OR 2024.
“We’re still a little bit short, so still reaching out for donations and grants and hope to meet our goal.”
Rudd’s park expansion project will see the library built in a new location at Floyd Avenue and Sixth Street.
The Rockford Lions Club donated seven computers and a printer to the library. Everyone involved is thrilled for the future upgrades. “It’s a space for kids’ activities and adult programming throughout the year.”
It’s been a long road, and there are still more challenges, but Leaman chooses to remain optimistic. “It’s just a temporary situation.”
Rudd and the library’s historical museum have received a lot of support. Rudd members are grateful for all the help they have received.
The library and the historical society still need donations to help them rebuild.
For the library, you can make those donations at First Security Bank in Rudd.
For the historical society, you can send those donations to their P.O. Box.
Rudd Historical Society: P.O. Rudd Historical Society: P.O. Box 282 Rudd (IA 50471)
Rudd Public Library: P.O. Rudd Public Library: Post Office Box 305 Rudd IA 50471
