The old American Rice Growers rice dryer, a long-standing symbol of Dayton’s agricultural heritage, is set to be demolished after standing tall since 1949. Located at the intersection of FM 1960 and Cleveland St. in Dayton, crews have begun preparations for a demolition process expected to span four to five months, marking an end to an era for the local community.
Randy Ripkowski, the building’s owner for the past 11 years, had hoped to see the repurposing of the iconic structure and give it a new lease of life in a different business venture. However, the costs associated with retrofitting the structure, characterized by its thick concrete walls, dashed those hopes.
The rice dryer holds a significant place in Dayton’s history, serving the rice farming community for generations since its establishment in 1949. The buildings on the property have remained dormant since 2004, with the effects of Hurricane Ike in 2008 resulting in the destruction of a section of the building’s metal roof.
Speculation surrounds the future of the two-acre tract of land following the demolition, with Randy Ripkowski hinting at its potential sale to a developer.
Dayton City Manager Kimberly Judge expressed sentiments of regret, acknowledging the significance of the rice dryer as an iconic symbol of Dayton among Dayton residents.
“The City wishes we could have preserved the structure. We know it is an iconic view of Dayton. You could see you were almost home when you could see the rice dryers in the distance,” said Judge. “We are hoping that if the property is sold that it will be for a business that will represent Dayton. It is located in our downtown District so we are going to be very particular about the use. From a business point of view, we understand why it is being torn down, but we are still sad to see it go.”
As preparations for the demolition continue, the impending absence of the rice dryer is a reminder of the changes sweeping through Dayton, marking the end of an era deeply rooted in the town’s farming legacy, as old structures make way for new growth.
“While this might seem to be the end of an era, as we look forward, the future looks very bright for the city of Dayton. We are going to work very hard to ensure that the legacy of Dayton is preserved with the continued use of this property,” Dayton Mayor Martin Mudd.
Typical that some of the Dayton “officials” are talking about how the property can be used. How they want it to be used. As long as it is used for a legal purpose, back off, get out of the way, and let them have at it. Another option would have been to buy it yourself, but you didn’t.
who is paying for this DEMO ?
City Taxes? County Taxes?
Randy Ripkoski with Dayton sand and Clay is paying for Demo
Such a big change coming to Dayton, it will surely be a landmark missed. I’ve posted some old photos of The Rice Dryer to share with others. Check it out in my Texas Through Time Photo Album. Hoping others will share any photos they have also to keep it’s memory alive.
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/EmtxnnFB6AJDWTTM/?mibextid=WC7FNe
It’s Time to say goodbye to an era. With all the asbestos and it just falling apart. It’s just time to say goodbye.
In a perfect world, this location would be used for a medical center since the only “hospital” in Liberty County is being built 30 minute drive from Dayton in the northern Liberty/Hardin area.
I see those workers exposed to an old building that could possibly contain asbestos. I hope this building has been checked and will be disposed of properly as hazardous waste.
how about a space for a community garden!