Emily Dean/ Winonan

The Winona community and residents at Watkins Manor are still confused after a 200-pound portrait of Paul Watkins was stolen from the manor last month.

According to reports the 4-by-5-foot portrait of Paul Watkins was taken from the manor last month. There are no leads or suspects, but an anonymous donor is offering a reward up to $3,000 for the return of the painting.

Director of assisted living, Cheryl Krage said the painting is significant in historical and sentimental value.

Krage said, “Paul Watkins’ family gave a lot to the community. It’s almost disrespectful to not have it here.”

The painting was hung in the Great Hall, which is used for a variety of social, recreational and entertaining activities Krage said.  The portrait was paired with a portrait of Watkins’ wife Florence, which have hung together since the house was built in 1920, Krage said.

“They have always been apart of the house. They’re part of celebrating what Watkins house is and the history,” Krage said.

Dale Rothering, a resident of the assisted living facility and member of the Winona community, said all the residents miss the painting, and they hope to see the portrait returned to its place in the manor soon.

“The wall just doesn’t look the same, and I don’t think it ever will be until we get it back,” Rothering said. “We all feel sorry that it’s gone. We miss it so much every time we go in, and it’s just not there.”

Since the disappearance of the portrait, Krage said the manor has increased security throughout the building and its surroundings. She said the building is now secure 24/7, and faculty is closely monitoring who comes in and out.

Krage said residents do not feel like their security is threatened, but it is hard for everyone to come to terms with the painting being taken from their home.

“We realize how much traffic there is around our building. It’s part of what we enjoy about being here in the community. But it’s hard not to take it personal,” Krage said.

Rothering said he and other residents feel safe in the manor regardless of the painting being stolen.

“I feel safe here with the security, but I think we have all learned to lock our doors at night,” Rothering said.

Krage and Rothering said they both hope to see the painting returned to its rightful place soon.

“Paul Watkins’ family gave a lot to the community. They left behind this manor house as a treasure for the community,” Krage said. “He did so much for this community, and we hope that the painting can be returned back to its home.”