The Excelsior Springs Historic Preservation Commission is calling on the community to help recognize outstanding preservation efforts with the 2025 Historic Preservation Awards Program. This annual program highlights exceptional commercial and residential restoration projects that contribute to the city’s historic character.
Nominations are now open for individuals, businesses, or organizations that have recently preserved a historic structure within the Elms Historic District, Boarding House Historic District, or Hall of Waters Historic District. The award aims to honor projects that demonstrate excellence in preservation, restoration, and stewardship while maintaining the city’s architectural heritage.
Recognizing Excellence in Preservation
The Historic Preservation Awards seek to encourage quality restoration work while educating the public on the significance of local historic structures. Eligible projects include those that have brought vacant or deteriorating buildings back to life, restoring them to their former glory while adhering to the Secretary of Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation. The goal is to showcase outstanding examples of historic preservation and inspire future restoration efforts.
Nomination and Selection Process
Anyone can nominate a project, whether it be the property owner, tenant, contractor, or even a community member who has admired the transformation of a historic structure. However, projects must have followed the city’s Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) process if required.
Judging will be based on the following criteria:
- The project’s ability to serve as a model for historic preservation
- Adherence to the Secretary of Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation
- The overall quality and craftsmanship of the work performed
How to Nominate a Project
Nomination forms are available at City Hall or can be downloaded online at cityofesmo.com. The deadline for submissions is April 7, 2025, at 5:00 p.m.
The Preservation Awards ceremony will be held on May 14, 2025, following the 5:00 p.m. meeting of the Excelsior Springs Historic Preservation Commission at the Council Chambers in the Hall of Waters.
For more information, visit the City of Excelsior Springs website or contact the Historic Preservation Commission.
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