Photo courtesy of Darcy Maulsby
Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds, was in Lake City this (Thursday) afternoon and visited the remains of a historic pipe organ business that was destroyed by fire Tuesday. Dobson Pipe Organ Builders was founded in 1974 by Lynn A. Dobson and is known throughout the world for their awe-inspiring instruments. Reynolds says it is a tragic loss for Lake City and Iowa.
While at the site Thursday, Reynolds thanked the many area volunteer firefighters who responded to the blaze and applauded how the community has come together in support of each other following the tragedy. Reynolds says she hopes the business will rebuild and continue their longstanding tradition of crafting instruments that are works of art in their own right.
The fire was first reported just after 4:30 p.m. Tuesday after a malfunctioning fan ignited sawdust in a workshop. The blaze spread quickly, eventually destroying both of the business’s buildings, including an organ being built for St. James Church in Sydney, Australia. One employee did sustain burns while attempting to put out the fire, but he is expected to make a full recovery. Reynolds made her comments Thursday while visiting several communities in the listening area. Carroll Broadcasting will bring you more from her in upcoming newscasts.
