Marion landmark building opens a new chapter as The Smyth.

The historic Marion mansion formerly known as the Henderson House was purchased by Gutschmidt Properties and renamed The Smyth; the property has 52 residential units. The new owner plans upgrades and is pursuing grant support for an elevator and solar panels.

Long known as the Henderson House, the Marion mansion now will move forward under a new name: The Smyth. Gutschmidt Properties purchased the building at 1501 1st Ave., just down the street from Marion High School. The historic residential multi-family home includes 52 units and retains many original architectural features. The rebranding honors William Smyth, who built the original house in the mid-1800s, and acknowledges later stewards such as Alma Henderson and the Sisters of Mercy. Key details: - The building was renamed The Smyth after purchase by Gutschmidt Properties. - The property at 1501 1st Ave. contains 52 residential units, including studios, one-bedroom units, and sleeping rooms. - William Smyth built the original mansion in the mid-1800s; the Sisters of Mercy acquired it in 1893 and added four-story wings for a boys' school and later nursing classrooms. - Alma Henderson converted the estate into apartments in 1964 and the Henderson family’s stewardship is noted by the new owner. - The new owner is pursuing upgrades, including plans for an elevator and solar panels, and is working with the City of Marion and the Iowa Economic Development Authority on grant applications. Summary: The sale and renaming reflect an effort to preserve the building's historic character while adapting it for ongoing residential use. Gutschmidt Properties plans physical improvements and is seeking grant funding to support an elevator and solar panels. A shared community room will be named for Rita Collins in recognition of her long service caring for the property.