Hotel Maytag: A Symbol of Newton's Enduring Spirit

The Hotel Maytag stands as a testament to Newton, Iowa's rich history and enduring spirit. Built in 1926 by Frederick Louis Maytag, the founder of the Maytag Corporation, the hotel was designed by Chicago architect Henry Raeder and quickly became the city's social and cultural epicenter. For decades, it hosted dances, wedding receptions, graduation ceremonies, and performances, with rumors even swirling that Judy Garland once graced its ballroom. It was also known as possibly the first air-conditioned hotel west of the Mississippi.However, the mid-1960s marked a turning point as the ballroom closed, and the hotel changed hands multiple times. The grand spaces were divided into apartments, offices, and commercial areas, leading to a period of decline. By 2016, the City of Newton took ownership of the building, initiating an extensive rehabilitation project to restore the Hotel Maytag to its former glory.The revitalized Hotel Maytag now features 45 apartments, the Capitol II Theatre, the Midtown Cafe, and the Maytag Event Complex. The restoration preserved the building's historic character while incorporating modern amenities. The Maytag Event Complex, once the hotel's ballroom, has been restored and now serves as a banquet facility in partnership with Des Moines Area Community College. The Capitol II Theater offers modern upgrades while retaining its historic aesthetic. The Hotel Maytag stands as a symbol of community revitalization, offering housing, entertainment, and commercial opportunities in the heart of Newton.