The Excelsior Springs Historic Preservation Awards Program, sponsored by the Excelsior Springs Historic Preservation Commission, is an exciting opportunity for the community to celebrate the outstanding preservation projects that were recently and substantially completed in the City’s historic districts. In 2025, awards will be given to the most outstanding commercial and residential projects.
Eligible are private citizens, organizations, businesses or any one group who recently preserved a commercial or residential historic structure located within the Elms Historic District, Boarding House Historic District or Hall of Waters Historic District.
The Preservation Award is intended to showcase exceptional projects in preservation, restoration and stewardship of structures within the City’s historic districts. The Commission hopes that by recognizing exceptional works, it will encourage more quality restoration and preservation as well as provide an opportunity to educate the public on some of the more outstanding historic structures within the City.
Projects that may qualify for an award are projects that restore a historic structure that may be in disrepair or vacant/abandoned, restoring the structure to its former glory. Projects can be nominated by the property owner, tenant, contractor or the passer-by. Eligible projects are those that have complied with the City’s Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) process (where applicable).
The 2025 ESHPC Preservation Awards were presented by Chairman Jason Van Till on May 14 for residential, commercial and investment property renovations.
Commercial – Chuck and Sonya Duckworth for 415 St. Louis Ave., The Springs Restaurant
The Springs Restaurant, formerly Mill Inn, received a complete remodeling of the interior while maintaining exterior features. A new roof replicates the original tile, which had to be replaced. Other exterior improvements include new paint and lighting. The parking lot was repaved and a new patio added to the facade with fountain.
Residential – Jill and John Clark, 519 S. Kansas City Ave.
The 2-1/2 story residence was remodeled inside and out. Exterior improvements include a new roof, painting, brick walkway from sidewalk to front steps and a new driveway including brick pavers.
Investment – Mark and Matthew Spohn, 436 E. Broadway, Bates-Jewell House AirB&B
The historic cottage at the end of Broadway received an entire make-over inside and out. Exterior improvements include replacing damaged siding and painting.