Marion’s Campbell Steele Gallery, Kendall Building to change hands

The building housing Campbell Steele Gallery in Marion will change hands as its current owners prepare to move.

Craig Campbell and Priscilla Steele have sold their Music in the Mud business and its home, the Kendall Building, for more than $500,000 to Dennis and Carrie Mahoney. Campbell and Steele have owned the building for 26 years, but plan to move to Omaha, taking the Campbell Steele Gallery with them.

Dennis Mahoney said he and his wife will maintain the Kendall Building as a place for music and art. He will book musicians - mostly blues, bluegrass, reggae and jam bands - while Carrie will use the Kendall's upper floor for her artwork and to teach Pilates. Mahoney said they also will continue to sell art and jewelry.

Mahoney, who previously ran Mahoney's Irish Pub in Cedar Rapids, said he plans to create a full pub on the first floor. Food won't be sold and it will only serve drinks during events.

He said the Kendall Building is unique because it serves as an event venue, not just a bar with a stage.

'It's a whole different vibe in the room. It's very unique in that it's an old historical building,” Dennis said. 'The reputation that Craig and Priscilla have built in that place is second to none.”

The Kendall Building, 1064 Seventh Ave., was built in 1894. Campbell and Steele purchased it in 1991 and used it for their business and as a living space.

The Mahoneys bought the building, furniture, equipment and a Grand piano. They officially will take over ownership on Sept. 1. Shows and events will continue during the transition.

l Comments: (319) 398-8366; matthew.patane@thegazette.com