DES MOINES – A barn in Ogden, a courthouse in Decorah, a tiny cemetery chapel in Avoca and a sprawling military base on the south side of Des Moines – these are just four of the 14 historic preservation projects that were honored in a virtual ceremony Thursday during the annual Preserve Iowa Summit. Chris Kramer, director of the Iowa Department of Cultural Affairs, which oversees the State Historic Preservation Office, says “These outstanding properties give communities a unique sense of pride and place. The adaptive reuse of these iconic buildings is a creative and economic way to revitalize an entire neighborhood.” The IDCA is co-hosting this year’s summit with the City of Dubuque.

The state office presented four awards, for projects that were completed July 1, 2018-June 30, 2019. The nonprofit group Preservation Iowa presented 10 additional awards. Preservation Iowa President Bruce Perry said “It’s thrilling to see owners, architects, contractors and communities work together not only to save Iowa’s historic treasures but to make them focal points to attract new investment into Iowa communities. Preservation is a unique way of using our collective history to prepare for Iowa’s bright future.”

Graceland Cemetery Chapel, Avoca

Among the winners of the “Preservation at its best” awards, was:

Graceland Cemetery Chapel, Avoca
Best Rural Preservation Project
Members of the Newton-Avoca Historical Society teamed up with the City of Avoca to save a tiny octagonal chapel in the local cemetery. Built around 1875, the 320-square-foot chapel now has a refurbished chimney, restored arched windows and new cedar shingles that pay tribute to the original design.