This building in downtown Waterloo is one of two structures remaining from the sprawling Rath Packing Company complex that in 1941 was the largest packing plant in the United States. The original section designed by local architect John S. Hartley was built in 1925 and constructed by the John C. Miller Construction Company of Waterloo. The building was expanded in the 1940s and again in the 1950s. The structure served as Rath’s administration headquarters until the company ceased operations in 1985.

Not only was Rath a large and important employer for the city of Waterloo for over 90 years, but the Rath Packing Plant also served as a significant rally point for both the Labor and Civil Rights movements in Waterloo. It was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2008.

The building has been sitting empty since 1985. Parts of the structure are starting to lose its integrity especially on the southeast side which has been damaged by rain and snow seeping into the building.

The city has attempted to sell the property to a developer to preserve and redevelop the site. The initial developer had financial and legal issues and the city was forced to take the property back. A second group interested in the project was not able to get plans to work out.

The City Council and Planning Department staff will soon determine the next steps for the building which could be demolition if a developer cannot be found.