2026 Honor Awards

The 2026 Honor Awards were presented at the Missouri State Capitol on Tuesday, May 5th.

Thank you to everyone who joined us to celebrate this year’s recipients!

2026 Honor Award Press Release Download

The Rozier Award

Karen Bode Baxter

St. Louis City
For over thirty years, Karen Bode Baxter has worked as a preservation consultant assisting property owners in Missouri, as well as Illinois, Iowa, Nebraska, Oklahoma, and New York. She has prepared hundreds of historic tax credit applications, National Register of Historic Places nominations, and historic structures reports. Before relocating to Missouri in 1995, Karen spent time as a Main Street executive director in communities in Oklahoma and Iowa. She continues to utilize that Main Street knowledge, along with her experience as a consultant, to help guide preservation-based economic development statewide as a member of the Board of Directors of Missouri Main Street Connection. Karen also served as a board member of Missouri Preservation from 2004 to 2015, leading the organization as President of the Board from 2009 to 2013. She was heavily involved in the planning of several Missouri Preservation conferences, both during her tenure as a board member and long after. Karen’s preservation expertise and knowledge are boundless, and she has a gift for making the complex nature of building projects and regulations more understandable. This ability to transcend and make preservation accessible was a common theme in the letters of support for her nomination. Karen’s impact can be seen and felt across the entire state, and if you’ve worked with Karen, you know her drive is relentless; her commitment to historic places and the groups and people that make preservation happen never wavers. Missouri Preservation is incredibly grateful to Karen Bode Baxter for her dedication and is delighted to present her with the 2026 Elizabeth and George Rozier Award.

The McReynolds Award

Missouri State Capitol Restoration

Jefferson City, Cole County
Completed in 1917, the Missouri State Capitol Building in Jefferson City stands as a powerful symbol of history, craftsmanship, and civic pride. Thanks to recent large-scale restoration and preservation efforts, its legacy will endure for generations to come. Recently completed projects include the replacement of the Capitol’s 23 skylights, allowing natural light to flood the building; the meticulous preservation and restoration of the historic stained glass laylight, bringing its intricate artistry back to life; and the careful restoration of the monumental bronze doors, redefining their original grandeur and operational intent. Inside, the Legislative Library has been thoughtfully restored, bringing back its original finishes and defining the area as both a functional and historic space, while the new addition of the Hall of Governors educates building users, honoring Missouri’s rich political history through the official collection of the portraits of the state’s past governors. These achievements, among many others, reflect a deep commitment to stewardship, balancing respect for the past with the needs of the present. The commitment continues with ongoing work to restore the South Lawn Fountains, reintroducing a dynamic and welcoming landscape feature, and the construction of a new interior vestibule system to complement the newly restored Monumental Bronze Doors. Together, these efforts represent not just restoration and preservation, but a lasting investment in the beauty, function, and historic integrity of the Missouri State Capitol Building. Missouri Preservation commends the State of Missouri’s continued dedication to the stewardship of this beautiful building that has played host to our Honor Awards for so many years.

The Osmund Overby Award

Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis — An Illustrated Timeline by John C. Guenther, FAIA, LEED AP

Wildwood, St. Louis County
Spanning more than three centuries of history, The Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis — An Illustrated Timeline, written by John C. Guenther (Reedy Press, 2025), offers a richly detailed and visually engaging account of one of Missouri’s most significant religious and architectural landmarks. Beginning with the 1673 Jolliet-Marquette expedition and continuing through the most recent restorations in 2025, the book traces 352 years of regional and national development through 138 carefully selected moments. The narrative follows a succession of sacred spaces, from the Basilica of St. Louis, King of France (the Old Cathedral), to St. John the Apostle & Evangelist, the Pro-Cathedral, and ultimately the Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis, illuminating how each reflects broader cultural and architectural trends. Particularly noteworthy is the book’s focus on design and craftsmanship. It highlights the Basilica’s architectural refinement, construction history, and the conception and completion of its extraordinary mosaic installations—among the most significant in the world. Supported by extensive illustrations, the work makes complex historical and architectural narratives accessible to a wide audience. By combining rigorous research with compelling visual storytelling, Guenther deepens public understanding of the Cathedral Basilica’s enduring significance, exemplifying the kind of scholarship and public engagement recognized by the Osmund Overby Award.

Preserve Missouri Awards

The Onion House

Saint Louis City
By the time Patrick Kohm purchased the Onion House in 2014, the 1892 showpiece that once served as both Gerhard Ludewig’s personal residence and a representation of his skill for prospective clients had faced significant alterations and neglect. Kohm saw potential in the home, the two domes from which it receives its moniker still recognizable behind overgrown spruce trees, and the lot that would allow him to pursue a love of chickens, bees, and gardening. It was not long after that he met his future wife, Kirsten. So intertwined with their lives was the Onion House that they chose to celebrate their wedding in the garden in 2017, years before actually moving in. Balancing full-time jobs and raising their family, they led a meticulous restoration effort, working evenings and weekends. Demoing the interior themselves allowed them to uncover and preserve several unique artifacts and historic details, such as hand-painted wallpaper. When it was time for the professionals to come in, they remained involved and hands-on wherever possible. Every piece of millwork was made to replicate original pieces, including the staircase, all of which was then stained and finished by Kirsten. The pair primed, painted, and finished the interior as time allowed. The distinctive exterior would be one of the most challenging aspects of the project. A historic photograph showed seven different styles of siding and multiple casings on the front facade alone, proving replication would be a major budget item. Ultimately, the Kohms moved forward; they would find a way to continue with the same level of dedication they had applied to the rest of the restoration. To their joy, the original siding was discovered beneath the asphalt shingles and was able to be repaired where needed and then repainted with the assistance of a historic color specialist. Over the years, Kirsten and Patrick documented their efforts on Instagram (@theonionhouse), amassing over 20,000 followers. Now in their finished home, the Kohms run an Airbnb out of the rear to help offset some of the construction costs. The Kohms have not only saved this beautiful piece of St. Louis history but have also helped advocate for historic preservation by sharing their journey on social media, showing that much of what it takes to save an old building is vision and determination.

Euclid East Condominiums

St. Louis City
Constructed in 1907 at the corner of McPherson and Euclid in St. Louis’ Central West End, this mixed-use building has long been a cornerstone of neighborhood life. Best known as the home of Bissinger’s Chocolates from 1927 to 2008, it also played a crucial role in the district’s resurgence in the 1970s, housing local establishments like Duff’s, Kopperman’s, and Rothschild Antiques. These businesses helped anchor the community through difficult years and contributed to its eventual resurgence. In June and July of 2022, two fires caused catastrophic damage to the large structure. Extensive smoke, water, and fire damage required a complete gut rehabilitation, including the removal of the roof and reconstruction of compromised masonry and structural systems. As they delved into demolition, much of the damage was worse than originally observed. Decorative materials were replicated and replaced as needed throughout, such as the fluted terra cotta column panels impacted by the reinforcement of the existing steel structure in the bays. Aluminum windows installed in the 1980s were replaced with period-accurate wood windows, and original historic trim and molds were revealed, restored, and painted to match the new windows. Upper-level residential units were reimagined to highlight the building’s character, with loft-like ceilings, restored bay windows, and new hardwood floors. Retail spaces were similarly revitalized with reconstructed tin ceilings and historically compatible finishes. Completed after six months of planning and twenty months of construction, the building reopened in January 2025 with twelve residential units and seven retail bays. This rehabilitation has successfully returned a key historic resource to the Central West End, reaffirming its role as a vital contributor to the ongoing vitality of the neighborhood.

Des Peres City Hall Rehabilitation

Des Peres, St. Louis County
Originally established in 1867 as the first orphanage west of the Mississippi River, the building now known as Des Peres City Hall has long served as a place of refuge and public service. The current structure was rebuilt in 1935 following a devastating fire, but since its acquisition by the City of Des Peres in 1973, it has remained largely intact despite two modest renovations in the 70s and 80s. A comprehensive planning effort completed in 2018 guided the rehabilitation strategy, ensuring the building could meet contemporary municipal needs while preserving its architectural integrity and symbolic place within the community. The entry on the building’s north facade was reimagined to be fully accessible and act as the primary point of access. Extensive structural and systems upgrades were made to secure the building’s long-term viability, including foundation stabilization, new mechanical and electrical systems, elevator replacement, and a new sprinkler system. Specific restoration efforts included repointing of the brick and repair of the terrazzo floors. The interior updates enhance energy efficiency and provide the space to support six municipal departments while also respecting historic layouts. The City of Des Peres’ commitment to reinvesting in this piece of their history stands out within a region characterized by rapid growth and new development. By choosing to rehab a historic building, the City has demonstrated that stewardship of existing civic assets can anchor community identity while meeting modern needs. This careful rehabilitation ensures this civic landmark will continue to serve the Des Peres community for future generations and hopefully inspire continued preservation of the area’s remaining historic structures.

Bryant-Rothwell House

Liberty, Clay County
Built in 1857, the Bryant-Rothwell house is one of Liberty’s oldest surviving residences and the earliest home in the city with photographic documentation. Constructed by Jesse Bryant, a Kentucky lumber merchant and Civil War-era mayor of Liberty, the house has long been associated with the community’s civic and commercial leadership. Its history includes ties to prominent local families and a period of ownership by William Jewell College for student housing. The modest foursquare residence, despite its significance, suffered from subdivision, prolonged vacancy, and a failed renovation, which left the building severely deteriorated and ultimately condemned. Capstone Homes, LLC owner Ken Personett stepped forward to rescue the property and undertake a comprehensive restoration with a goal of not only stabilizing the building but also returning it to single-family residential use while preserving its historic integrity. The project addressed critical structural issues, which included leveling and tuckpointing the stone foundation. Original features such as clapboard siding, porch elements, and box gutters were revealed and restored. Original windows were restored where possible, and non-historic vinyl windows were replaced with more compatible aluminum-clad wood units. Original doors were kept where repairable and recreated when necessary. A deteriorated rear addition was repurposed into a compatible two-car garage and modestly extended, complementing the design of the primary structure. With assistance from A3G Architects, this rehabilitation carefully adhered to both local historic district guidelines and the Secretary of the Interior Standards for Historic Rehabilitation. Today, the Bryant-Rothwell House at 462 E. Kansas Street stands restored rather than lost – a rare mid-nineteenth century residence once again contributing to Liberty’s historic fabric and serving as a reminder of the city’s early civic and educational heritage.

Truman Train Depot Restoration

Independence, Jackson County
Constructed in 1913 and listed on both the National Register of Historic Places and local historic register, the Spanish Colonial revival style Truman Train Depot in Independence, Missouri, has long been a stop on Amtrak’s Missouri River Runner line and holds significance as the final stop of President Harry S. Truman’s Whistle Stop tour. In order to remain viable as an Amtrak station, the building needed several upgrades, and although design work was completed in 2019, construction was stalled by the pandemic and an extended railroad approval process. The building remained closed and continued to deteriorate for five years until 2024, when the City revived the effort and approved a change order that would allow the process to move forward. New flooring, lighting, and plumbing were installed along with mechanical and electrical upgrades. Exterior improvements included painting and wood rot repair, repairs to the downspouts and half-round copper gutters, grading, drainage, and landscape work. The project carefully adhered to the Secretary of the Interior Standards for Historic Rehabilitation and received approval from the Independence Heritage Commission. Completed in 2025, the result is a fully accessible depot that once again serves travelers and the community. Along with essential passenger services, the space is now home to the Jackson County Genealogical Society Research Library, and plans are being made to connect it via trail to the National Frontier Trails Museum. The Truman Depot stands once again as a vibrant gateway – linking past and present while supporting future community vitality.

Recess Inn Bed & Breakfast

Ethel, Macon County
In the small northern Missouri community of Ethel, the Recess Inn Bed & Breakfast stands as a powerful example of successful preservation efforts in a rural setting. Originally constructed in 1909 as a brick schoolhouse, the building opened to students in 1910 and served generations of local families. Over time, nearby one-room schools were consolidated into the facility, making it a central educational and social anchor until its closure in 1980 amid regional population decline. The building’s survival is a testament to local determination. Rescued from demolition by the Gordon family and thoughtfully adapted to an inn in 1992, the former school was preserved with its character intact. Purchased by Ethel native, Samantha Bray, and her husband Michael in 2024, the property continues that legacy, blending preservation with heritage tourism and renewed local engagement. The inn retains the spirit of the historic school through carefully curated spaces, including four guest rooms—once classrooms—interpreted through themes such as History, Geography, and Music. Original architectural features and an extensive collection of school and community artifacts immerse visitors in the building’s past. The Oral Hawkins Library, honoring a longtime educator and administrator, has been revitalized as a living archive and gathering space. In 2025, they established a Community Histories Library where all of the school yearbooks can be found, in addition to histories of nearby communities in Macon and Linn counties, and other area history. Equally significant are the deep personal connections embedded in the inn’s operation. Staff members and collaborators maintain direct ties to the school and history of Ethel, several having family who once attended or worked in the building. Efforts continue to expand archival collections, preserve oral histories, and interpret regional stories. The Recess Inn demonstrates that preservation in rural communities is not only about saving buildings, but about sustaining identity, memory, and place. In regions where resources are often limited, and population decline presents ongoing challenges, it is especially important to recognize and celebrate preservation efforts in whatever form they take. The Recess Inn Bed & Breakfast exemplifies how dedication, creativity, and community pride can ensure that even the most off-the-beaten-path landmarks continue to educate, inspire, and connect.

George Washington Carver School | Carver School Apartments

Fulton, Callaway County
Built in 1927, the George Washington Carver School served as the only Black school in Fulton until desegregation in 1970. Named for renowned scientist and Missouri native George Washington Carver – who attended the school’s opening and addressed a mixed race crowd that was said to have exceeded 1000 people – it was later described as a longtime “focal point for the African American community of Fulton.” It served all city sixth graders until closing in 1982. In 1989, concerned citizens formed the George Washington Carver Memorial Foundation, purchased the property, and installed a Black history museum. However, by the 2000s, the building was once again vacant and in need of substantial repairs, worsened by ongoing roof leaks and broken windows. It was placed on Missouri Preservation’s “Most Endangered Properties” list (now known as Places in Peril) in 2001. A turning point came in 2018 when the Memorial Foundation’s successor, the Carver School Cultural Center, approached MACO Development Company about adaptive reuse of the property. It took time to secure the funding and get through the pandemic, but the rehabilitation finally began in 2024. Exterior work included masonry and structural repairs, along with the construction of a new building at the back of the property, which connects to the school through a narrow, one-story hall that leaves minimal impact on the historic building. The school’s historic front doors were restored, and the windows were replaced with custom aluminum versions that replicated historic sightlines. Inside, hallways and staircases were retained, and each classroom is now an apartment. The auditorium is still largely open and houses a museum and fitness center. Several interior finishes were also retained, including classroom doors and portions of the original blackboards. Completed in December 2025, the school now features 9 new apartments in the historic building and 24 in the new addition. All 33 units are reserved for people 55 and older, and most are priced below market-rate. This once-endangered building is now back to work as a fully functioning apartment complex that celebrates its connection to the Black community in Fulton and ensures its history will endure for years to come.

Buckner-Ragsdale Building

Cape Girardeau, Cape Girardeau County
Located just steps from the Mississippi River, the Buckner-Ragsdale Building has long played a role in Cape Girardeau’s commercial and educational life. Constructed in 1916 and enlarged in 1937, the building originally housed the Buckner-Ragsdale Clothing Company, with the Cape Girardeau Business College occupying upper floors until at least the 1950s. Following the department store’s closure in 1982, the building remained vacant until its 1998 conversion into Buckner Brewing and Ragsdale’s Pub. Both ventures closed in 2013, and the building saw limited use until it was purchased by local developers Jeff Maurer and Scott Rhodes in 2021, the pair having already completed two other rehabilitations on prominent historic buildings in the community. While the building retained key historic features, including vitrolite storefront signage and original openings, these elements had deteriorated and were obscured by non-historic awnings. Interior spaces had been heavily altered during its years as a restaurant and brewery, with subdivisions and finishes that compromised the building’s historic character. The rehabilitation project carefully addressed these challenges. Exterior work included the removal of nonhistoric elements, repair of features like the vitrolite signs, and installation of historically appropriate replacement windows. Interior spaces on the main and lower levels were reopened to more closely reflect their original retail function. Modern needs were carefully integrated, including the addition of an elevator, commercial kitchen, and upgrades necessary for a modern event center, such as acoustical paneling. Historic elements on the third floor, including wood flooring, ornamental staircases, and partition systems associated with the business college, were preserved. Completed in August 2025, the Buckner-Ragsdale Event Center is now one of the largest event venues in Cape Girardeau. This project is a thoughtful example of adaptive reuse, preserving a significant historic resource while reestablishing its role as a vibrant center of community activity.

Cape Girardeau County 1908 Courthouse Rehabilitation

Jackson, Cape Girardeau County
For over a century, the 1908 Cape Girardeau County Courthouse stood as the architectural centerpiece of Jackson, Missouri, but when a new justice center was opened in 2020, the future of the old courthouse became uncertain. Dormant and suffering from decades of band-aid repairs, Cape Girardeau County made the decision to rehabilitate the structure and relocate several important county offices back to its central location. Led by Penzel Construction and Treanor, the $9.6 million rehabilitation was an exhaustive undertaking that balanced a desire for historic authenticity and modern functionality. The building’s masonry was repaired and repointed, and the copper roof and architectural elements on the exterior were replaced in-kind. Throughout the interior, several of the building’s original features were retained, including mosaic tile, marble, plaster, and stained glass, many of these features rediscovered during the rehabilitation process. The commission chamber now presides over what was once the largest courtroom, elements of the 1908 room inspiring the chamber’s modern design. All of the building systems were upgraded, including HVAC, electrical, and plumbing, and the building was brought up to modern life-safety codes, all while respecting historic character. By choosing to restore rather than replace, Cape Girardeau County has preserved its most significant landmark, proving that with visionary investment, a historic icon can once again serve the public for the next century.