THE MAYOR'S AWARDS - City of Elgin

THE MAYOR'S AWARDS
1991
1.    E. C. "Mike" Alft, an inspired teacher and dedicated Elgin historian who, for thirty-seven
      years has preserved and promoted Elgin's heritage by educating the public.
2.    Pat Andrews, a city planner who because of her enthusiasm for and knowledge of
      Elgin's history and architecture, has not only educated many to the need for and the
      means of historic preservation but has also been a facilitator of their projects.
3.    Steven Byers, a conservation biologist and naturalist who is dedicated to the
      preservation and promotion of Elgin's natural heritage.
4.    Bruce Dahlquist, an architect who has acted as a catalyst not only to increase public
      awareness of Elgin's architectural assets but also to inspire enthusiasm for them.
5.    Lois Eggebrecht, a homeowner who, with her late husband, has for decades
      painstakingly maintained 34 North Porter, one of Elgin's most historically and
      architecturally significant homes.
6.    The Elgin Area Historical Society -Historic Elgin Cemetery Walk, a living history program
      Elgin's architectural heritage.
7.    The Gifford Park Association, an organization of volunteers that has, since 1979, been in
      the vanguard of efforts to preserve and promote Elgin's architectural heritage.
8.    Art and Sue Izzo, homeowners who, since 1955, have respectfully maintained 214 S
      State Street, one of Elgin's most historically and architecturally significant homes, and
      who have on various occasions opened it to the public.
9.    Howard S. Miller, owner of 47 Fountain Square Plaza, who had the integrity to choose
      and architecturally sensitive direction for the adaptive reuse of one of Elgin's early
      commercial structures.
10.   Richard & David Powers and the late Tom Akemann - father, son, and son-in-law,
      respectively--who had the vision and fund the means to save and restore 321 Division
      Street, one of Elgin's most historically and architecturally significant homes.
11.   Viola Swanson, a dedicated genealogist and Elgin historian who has worked to preserve
      Elgin's local history and its families, and who has shared her knowledge of this heritage
      with many.

1992
1.    U-46 Board of Education for approving the plans for the architecturally sensitive
      additions to Washington and McKinley elementary schools.
2.    Al's Café and Creamery for the adaptive and architecturally sensitive reuse of the law
      offices of John W. Ranstead.
3.    George & Jo Ellen Doscher for their interior and exterior renovation of the house at 268
      Seneca Street, which they saved from scheduled demolition and returned to a single-
      family dwelling.

4.    Chapin & Sally Wood for the magnificent restoration of the worker's flats at 3 North
      Liberty Street as well as for returning an empty space into the neighborhood street front
      that it once was.
5.    Charles Burnidge, Burnidge & Cassell Architects, for all of the past work in preservation
      in the City of Elgin.
6.    Mick Zawislak for the "Landmark" series appearing each Sunday in the Daily-Courier,
      and series that has greatly helped to increase public awareness of our rich heritage.
7.    Studio One, a participant in the Building Facade Program, for demonstrating a
      commitment to the revitalization of Elgin's Center City by restoring their building
      facades to an architectural style appropriate to the buildings' date of construction.
8.    The Gifford Park Association for the rehabilitation of 28 North Gifford Street.
9.    Elgin Genealogical Society for the production of Kane County, Illinois Early Families,
      1833-1885. This 264-page volume includes necessary dates, place names and vital
      records on early Elgin area settlers and a wealth of fascinating narratives of those early
      residents from information and proofs supplies by their living descendants.
10.   Clarence A Reber for the body of his work with and for the Elgin Area Historical Society.

1993
 1.   Craig Bakstad for the long-term maintenance as well as the recent renovation of the
      exterior of 209-211 East Chicago Street and the restoration of this early commercial
      building's third floor ballroom.
 2.   Stephen G Bone for dedicated assistance as City Staff liaison to the Heritage
      Commission
 3.   Dirk Dypold for the exterior/interior restoration of 117 Tennyson Court, a private
      residence.
 4.   Richard A Gross for unearthing and acquisition the wealth of historical materials on the
      Elgin Fire department as well as for enthusiastically educating others to their
      importance and also working to establish a permanent home for them in Fire Barn No.
      5.
 5.   Brigid Trimble for having the vision and determination to secure Fire Barn NO. 5 for a
      fire museum as well as for inspiring others to work for the cause.
 6.   Fire Barn No. 5 Museum Board for working to help establish a fire museum for the City
      of Elgin.
 7.   Home Federal Savings of Elgin for investing in Elgin's historic neighborhoods by
      providing home owners with opportunity to secure the financial resources necessary for
      residential rehabilitation.
 8.   Kenneth Moran of Home Federal Savings and Loan for his leadership in ensuring that
      residents of Elgin 's historic neighborhoods not only have financial resources available
      for the rehabilitation of their homes but that they do so according to code and with an
      eye toward historic preservation.
 9.   Donald Mapes for the exterior/interior rehabilitation of 16 North Gifford, and Historic
      District residence that is both historically and architecturally significant as well as for

rehabilitation and maintenance of other properties in the Historic District.
10. Neighborhood Housing Services of Elgin for all it has done to implement the
    rehabilitation of residences in Elgin's older neighborhoods.
11. Thomas Stewart for the work he has done to preserve Elgin's natural heritage--including
    but not limited to the Tyler Creek Forest Preserve--and to educate others to the
    importance of doing so.
12. City of Elgin and the Elgin City council for the Dedication to appropriate the necessary
    funds for the renovation and preservation of one of Elgin's most important architectural
    treasures--the Lords Park Pavilion.

1994
1.   Minna Bohner, who translated and transcribed 116 years of church ledgers from
     German to English. These ledgers originate with the founding of the church by German
     immigrants in 1875 and continue to the present.
2.   Gifford Park Association, for the Historic Elgin House Tour, now in its 13th year, as one
     of the City's most positive annual events that benefits the entire city of Elgin through
     education and public awareness.
3.   Northwest Housing Partnership
4.   The City of Elgin, for the restoration and adaptive reuse of the Douglas Hotel.
5.   Al Cox and Reggie Stephens, for the restoration of 254 Villa Street and 600 Margaret
     Place, Elgin.
6.   Deborah Nier, for the development and implementation of the City of Elgin's
     "Downtown Facade Restoration Program".
7.   Elgin Elks Lodge #737, for the restoration of the exterior of the Elk's Club building at 18
     Villa Court, Elgin.
8.   Dan Miller, for his consistent effort and active participation for over 10 years in Elgin's
     preservation movement.

1995
1.   Caryl Clement and Roger Szymczak for the restoration of 456 Douglas Avenue.
2.   Elgin Area Historical Society, "Old Main", for the restoration and adaptive reuse of "Old
     Main" as a museum.
3.   Dennis Roxworthy, for the sympathetic renovations of several Elgin properties over the
     last 10 years.
4.   Sheri Buttstadt, for the vision to implement the "Bring Back the Fountain" project,
     several "River Clean-Up" days and other continuing neighborhood activities.
5.   Gary Kutina for his dedication to the Elgin National Watch Company observatory and
     the education programs he has developed over the years for the students of U-46.
6.   Willis and Linda Weiler for the restoration of 310 Division.
7.   Hines Building and Judy Hines for the commercial facade restoration of 24 N Douglas
     and 115 Highland Avenue.

8.  Elgin Police Department Commemorative History Book Committee, for recording the
    Elgin Police history in book form from 1836 to 1994.
9. Avenue of Flags -- Bluff City Cemetery, for the Memorial Day flag ceremony, which over
    the years has grown to a current display of over 400 veteran's flags.
10. Jerry Turnquist, first recipient of the "Mayor George Van De Voorde Outstanding Service
    Award" for his various preservation activities over the years which includes many
    projects with the Elgin Public Museum, the Elgin Area Historical Society, the Elgin
    Heritage Commission, and the Elgin Genealogical Society. He was on the committee to
    develop the Elgin Center City Master Plan, he originated the Historic Elgin Cemetery
    Walk, co-author of "Architecture in Elgin: Neo-classic examples", served on the writing
    committee for the Genealogical Society's "Kane County, Illinois Early Families 1833-
    1885".

1996
1.  E.C. Mike Alft, Historian - Mayor George Van De Voorde, Outstanding Service Award -
    for his broad range of service and dedication to preserving Elgin’s heritage.
2. Jean Bednar, for promoting historic Elgin on behalf of the Gifford Park Association.
3. Daren and Ken Wagner, for the rehabilitation project at 412 Fulton Street
4. Neighborhood Housing Services of Elgin (NHS), the Gifford Park Association (GPA), and
    Home Federal Savings of Elgin, for a cooperative effort in restoring the home at 396
    Division Street.
5. Elgin Area Historical Society, “Elgin 100 years Ago” - a radio program promoting Elgin=s
    heritage.
6. Stuart Wasilowski, Director, Neighborhood Housing Services of Elgin (NHS), for taking
    great strides in the rejuvenation of Elgin’s heritage.
7. Rich Hirschberg of Jones Intercable for stories about preservation and history in Elgin
    for the “Elgin Week in Review,” a local cable news program.
8. The Spring-Douglas Historic District Advocates for efforts resulting in the successful
    nomination of their historic district.
9. Laura and Lee Anderson for the restoration of their home at 940 Douglas Avenue
10. Gail Borden Public Library staff and board members, for their efforts to catalog
    historical and genealogical data from early Elgin to present.

1997
1.   Clarence Reber - Mayor George Van De Voorde Outstanding Service Award - for
     community involvement and many valuable contributions to the Elgin Area Historical
     Society.
2.   William Briska for undertaking the task of researching and writing the history of the
     Elgin Mental Health Center
3.   Elgin Area Historical Society and the Elgin Genealogical Society - retaining, sorting and
     organizing in chronological order, the Elgin Probate records from the 1850s to the

1950s.
4. Elgin Genealogical Society for indexing the birth, marriage and death records and
    making them available to the public.
5. Paul & Susan Kuester for the restoration of their home at 316 East Chicago Street.
6. Steve & Laura Stroud for the restoration of their home at 653 Douglas Avenue.
7. Terry Wawrzyniak for his dedication and drive in towards supporting the historic
    properties located in the southeast neighborhood.
8. Mary Hill for assisting Elginite's in their quest to find out more about the history and
    architectural significance of their homes.
9. Jim and Teresa Koko for the restoration of their home at 359 Park Street.
10. John & Rebecca Anderson for the restoration of their home at 384 Division Street.
11. Illinois National Guard Armory for maintaining and retaining the original significance
    and integrity of the Armory building.
12. The teachers of Channing Elementary School Sixth Grades, Joan Anderson, Diana
    Cornelissen, and Cathy McMurray, for providing the 6th grade students the opportunity
    to learn about the architecture and history of their neighborhood, the Elgin Historic
    District.
1998
1.  Chris and Karen Bach never losing sight of their goal they have succeeded with the
    exceptional exterior restoration of their home at 419 DuPage Street.
2. Bluff City Cemetery for collaborating with a variety of organizations to promote the
    assets of this historic site.
3. Larry Jacobsen for the meticulous restoration of his residence at 435 E. Chicago Street.
    The First finished applicant of the Architectural Grant Program.
4. St. Mary Catholic Church Parish for the interior renovation of their 100 year old church,
    restoring the past while accommodating future needs.
5. ChristmaStride '97 - The Christmas Church Tour for providing a venue to display the
    unique architecture of some of Elgin's churches.
6. Steven and Patti Lossau for their outstanding restoration efforts at 434 E. Chicago
    Street returning their home to its original grandeur.
7. AgTech, Inc. for the stabilization phase of the Teeple Barn a significant agricultural
    landmark, the only 16 sided barn in Illinois.
8. William Stickling for the facade restoration of one of Elgin's best known landmarks --
    The Elgin Tower Building.
9. John Russell Ghrist for over ten years of dedication to the preservation of local area
    history by writing books and newspaper articles, giving lectures and hosting a WEPS
    radio show.
10. The Gifford Park Association for the Great Unveiling, a program designed to encourage
    the removal of synthetic siding from homes in the Elgin Historic District.
11. Judy Hines for the willingness to prove once again that “Preservation Is Good Business”
    in the restoration of one of Elgin’s oldest houses, the Surprise at 319 DuPage Street, one
    of Elgin’s oldest cobblestone homes.

1999
1.   Dan & Pat Miller for the excellent restoration of their residence at 155 S. Gifford Street
     and changing a problem property into one of Elgin's finest examples of preservation.
2.   Rebecca Hunter for turning her passion into reality by identifying and cataloguing Sears
     Mail-order homes while increasing public awareness of these historic treasures in Elgin.
3.   Lord's Park Association, for their efforts to raise funds and awareness for the
     restoration of the Lord's Park Fountain while overseeing many aspects of the
     construction to "Bring Back the Fountain."
4.   Aimee Keltner Riddle and Melissa Craig for promoting the influence of Gail Borden and
     the dairy industry in Elgin in academic history competitions locally, statewide, and
     nationally.
5.   Bill Witte & Marilyn Krug for the meticulous hands-on restoration of their home at 403
     Division Street.
6.   Admirers of Beautiful Old Dwellings of Elgin (ABODE), for providing volunteers to assist
     in the restoration efforts of 403 Division Street and allowing the owners to finish and
     take advantage of grant funds.
7.   Grace Richard for promoting residency in downtown Elgin by the adaptive reuse of the
     property 10-12 Douglas Avenue that is now her home and for the restoration of the
     building's facade.
8.   Mark Billings for promoting preservation in Elgin through a series of articles published in
     the Daily Herald.
9.   Roy & Evelyn Chapman for taking on the monumental task of restoring their home at
     705 West Highland Avenue.

2000
1.   George Albee who has made many contributions to the preservation of Elgin history as
      a member of the Elgin Genealogical Society and the Elgin Area Historical Society, he
      used his talents to preserve and display Elgin documents and artifacts and as an editor
      of the Society=s publication, The Crackerbarrel, he researched primary Elgin
      documents and wrote informative articles which are read by people all over the
      country.
2.   Paul Bednar who has sent all of his spare time since 1987 volunteering and contributing
      to the restoration of the Gifford Park gazebo, Elgin Historic District streetlights and
      signs, and GPA project homes, and chairing the historic homes House Walk.
3.   George Doscher – Mayor George Van der Voorde Award - for his ambitious role in Elgin
      historic preservation projects including the restoration of 220 S. State Street, serving as
      Chairman of the Heritage Commission for 5 1/2 years in which time the Commission
      brought in two additional Historic Districts. He is also the founding member of ABODE
      which assists homeowners with restoration projects and instigated “Depot Dogs” as a
      continuing fund raiser for the restoration of the Depot.

4.  Kurt Kresmery and the Douglas Street Lofts by demonstrating through the renovation
     of this historic downtown building that old buildings do in fact have new uses. By
     cleaning and repairing the facade of the existing buildings, he revealed detailing that
     had been covered and carried motifs of the detailing throughout the new construction.
5.  Elgin Public Museum Board for their perseverance to complete an ambitious addition
     onto the museum, a historic landmark, while complying with ADA codes, retaining the
     historic integrity of the building, and painstakingly including details and craftsmanship
     on the addition.
6. (Alice Izatt) Lord’s Park Association who as part of their work toward the nomination of
     their neighborhood as a landmark historic district in Elgin, volunteered to acquire
     materials to scrape, prime and paint the house of Alice Izatt, and elderly resident
     within the district.
7. John Roberson for his professional and volunteer work toward improving the historic
     architectural integrity of Elgin by acting as the lead architect on numerous significant
     restorations such as the front facades of Douglas Avenue, the Elgin Public Museum, and
     the Lords Park Pavilion.
8. Shoe Factory Lofts/ Bruce Lord -Stickling Memorial Award- whose residential
     conversion of an abandoned shoe factory exemplifies the potential for adaptative use
     of old buildings in Elgin.
9. Charles Smith who overcame the odds of finding a vacant lot for the 530 St. Charles
     Street home and keeping the historic home within the historic district.
10. Fred Steffen who went above and beyond in reproducing a cornice to exact proportions,
    on 17 Douglas Avenue, according to old pictures and evidence left on the building.
2001
1.   Brigid Trimble - Mayor George Van der Voorde Outstanding Service Award- whose
     ambitious role in Elgin's historic preservation includes Fire Barn No. 5's designation as a
     local landmark, its acceptance on the National Register of Historic Places, and its
     conversion into a museum, exhibiting an extensive collection of memorabilia. Brigid
     was also instrumental in the designation of the Spring-Douglas Historic District and the
     Elgin National Watch Historic District. She has served on numerous commissions and
     boards including the Elgin Heritage Commission, and is continuing her preservation
     efforts on the Illinois Historic Sites Advisory Council.
2.   Brian Anderson - During a three year period, Brian Anderson worked tirelessly in the
     restoration of 40 N. Gifford Street. He and his fellow Gifford Park Association member’s
     efforts preserved a home and continued Elgin's preservation efforts.
3.   City of Elgin Building Maintenance Department - The work of this department enabled
     the south facade Fire Barn No. 5 to be restored. Their hard work to restore one of the
     city's historic building exhibits the commitment the city has towards preservation.
4.   Jeannine Burger, the late Dr. George Burger, and Rowena Swan - For ten years, these
     three dedicated members of the First Congregational Church of Elgin indexed the
     church's records, which dated back to 1836. Their time and effort has insured that many
     people will be able to research their past.
5.   Elgin Genealogical Society and Elgin Area Historical Society - Seventeen volunteers

worked for three years in processing nineteenth century city records found in the
    basement of City Hall. The records were microfilmed and are now housed in City Hall,
    the Gail Borden Library, and the Elgin Area Historical Society.
6. Lowrie Elementary School Staff and Residents of Elgin's South West Area
    Neighborhood - Between 1993 and 1997, Lowrie Elementary School faced the possibility
    of closure. With the help of school staff and administration, and the surrounding
    community, Lowrie remains open and its students can continue to walk to school.
7. William Barnes - For the restoration of his home at 514 Douglas Avenue.
8. Keith and Susan Farnham - For the restoration of their home at 1045 N. Spring Street.
9. Joe and Julie Karakas - For the restoration of their home at 464 Douglas Avenue.
10. Steven and Susan McCracken - For the restoration of their home at 560 Douglas
    Avenue.
11. Gordon & Kathryn Richards - For the restoration of their home at 900 Douglas Avenue.

2002

1.    Raleigh Sutton - The Mayor George Van der Voorde Outstanding Service Award - for his
      ambitious role in the preservation of Elgin’s African American heritage.
2.    Frederick Steffen - The William Stickling Memorial Award - for the adaptive reuse of his
      commercial building at 11-15 Douglas Avenue.
3.    Northeast Neighborhood Association for organizing the “Homes fro the Holiday” house
      tour.
4.    Jean Keltner for organizing the “Looking up at Downtown Elgin, Illinois” tour.
5.    Richard Hirschberg & Michael Noland for their efforts to save the Crocker Theater
6.    Greg & Debi Smith for the restoration of their home at 766 South Street
7.    Susan Shadid for the restoration of her home at 414 S. Liberty Street
8.    Steve & Laura Stroud for the restoration of their front wraparound porch at 653
      Douglas Avenue
9.    Carlos Rivera & Susan Tyler for the restoration of their home at 409 Douglas Avenue.
10.   First Congregational Church for the restoration of the exterior of the church at 256 E.
      Chicago Street.
11.   Quality Painting & Decorating for the construction of an historically significant Victorian
      era porch at 653 Douglas Avenue.
12.   William Briska & Francine Cella for rebuilding the carriage house at their home at 470
      Park Street.
13.   Elgin Area Historical Society for creating the “Wish You Were Here” book and exhibit.
14.   Steve & Peg Youngren for their efforts as Chairs of the Pioneer Memorial Foundation of
      Illinois, in rededicating the Pioneer Memorial statue in Elgin.
15.   Jim Bell, Jerry Pask, Patricia Hill, Patricia Miller, Mark Billings, David & Patricia Segel,
      and Paul Bednar for their efforts as the committee to restore Gifford Park.

2003

 1.   Scott Savel of All Around Home Improvements – First Annual Artisan’s Award- to
     recognize the exemplary work of a contractor, craftsperson or artisan in the
     preservation and restoration of Elgin’s architectural heritage.
 2. Neal Pitcher - The William Stickling Memorial Award- for the rehabilitation of 164 E.
     Chicago Street. The award is dedicated to honor the achievements of adaptive reuse
     projects of industrial and commercial buildings.
 3. Marianne Nelson – The Mayor George Van der Voorde Outstanding Service Award -for
     her ambitious role in bringing the preservation of Elgin’s agricultural and natural
     heritage to the forefront, through her efforts in the preservation of Teeple Barn, and
     with the Fox Valley Land Foundation.
 4. John Haight, for the rehabilitation of 231 Douglas Avenue.
 5. Ben & Lucille Corn, for the restoration of the façade of the McBride Block at 53-63
     Douglas Avenue.
 6. Rich and Leanne Oleson, for the restoration of their home at 639 Lillie Street.
 7. The Elgin Area Historical Society and Grindstone Productions, for the creation of the
     Video “Circle of Time: Elgin and the Watch Company.”
 8. The Northeast Neighborhood Association, for the creation and promotion of one of
     Elgin’s older established neighborhoods through the self guided driving tour –
     “Evolution of a Neighborhood.”
 9. Rachel Campbell, for 20 years of volunteer work dedicated to preserving Elgin's history.
 10. Mark Billings, for publication of the article "In Praise of Kit Homes" in the Spring 2003
     issue of American Bungalow Magazine.

2004

 1.   John B. Crowe of Berkley Crowe, Inc.- The Artisan Award - for using his exception skill as
      a mason in the restoration of many of Elgin's masonry structures.
 2.   Victor Gonzalez - The William Stickling Award - for the restoration of the commercial
      structures at 11 and 15 North State Street.
 3.   Tom Krebsbach for educating people about Elgin's Architectural Heritage through the
      sale of historic homes in Elgin.
 4.   Marvin Causey for showcasing Elgin's Architectural heritage through the creation of the
      poster, “Looking Up at Downtown Elgin.”
 5.   E.C. “Mike” Alft and William H. Briska, for co-authoring the book “Elgin Time: A History
      of the Elgin National Watch Company,” and The Elgin Area Historical Society, for
      facilitating its publication
 6.   Linda Rock and Margaret Rowe for co-chairing the Annual Historic Elgin cemetery Walk
      in Bluff City Cemetery.
 7.   Larry and Lou Stotts for promoting Elgin's heritage through a number of neighborhood
      and citywide activities.

2005
 1.    Adolfo Bello & Miguel Baeza - 7 and 9 North State St. - The William Stickling Memorial
       Award
 2.    Demi & Cooper – Old Elks Lodge at 18 Villa Court- The William Stickling Memorial Award
 3.    Julio Lopez of Valentine General Construction - The Artisan’s Award
 4.    Dan Miller - The Mayor George Van de Voorde Award
 5.    John Loete, Alan Graf, Michael O'Brien and Jim Bell of the City of Elgin for the design
       and implementation of the drainage system at the Elgin National Watch Factory Depot.
 6.    Gifford Park Association for the deconversion and restoration of the property at 132 N.
       Channing Street.
 7.    Spates Temple for the restoration of the church at 301 DuPage Street after it had
       burned down in a fire.
 8.    Gifford Park Association for the conversion of an abandoned vacant lot into a pocket
       park.
 9.    METRA for the construction of the new commuter station terminal at National Street.
 10.   Dahlquist & Lutzow Architects for implementing the design of the new Elgin Child and
       Family Resource Center at 210 National Street.
 11.   Elgin Area Historical Society for showcasing and highlighting products that were "Made
       in Elgin" through the museum's newest exhibit, "Made in Elgin."
 12.   Marc & Anna Moeller for restoring their home at 737 N. Spring Street.
 13.   Rose Martinez for the restoration of her home at 424 Park Street.
 14.   Mich and Mary Ellen Barbezat for restoring their home at 353 N. Liberty Street.

2006
 1.  Michael Howell – Artisan Award - of Carpentry with Integrity
 2.  Keith and Susan Farnham – William Stickling Award - 216 Prairie Street
 3.  Dennis Roxworthy - Mayor George Van de Voorde Award
 4.  William Alexander and Richard Oleson for entrepreneurship in opening the Elgin
     Windmill Factory.
 5. Deborah Allan for facilitating the acquisition of property to create a neighborhood
     pocket park at Geneva and East Chicago Streets.
 6. Harry and Phyllis Blizzard for service and fundraising contributions to the Elgin Area
     Historical Society.
 7. Bernard Cavitt for the restoration of the facades at 203-213 and 217-219 National
     Street.
 8. Gifford Park Association for salvaging over 50 houses and hundreds of architectural
     details over the past 26 years.
 9. Gray Core Team: Dan Defrain, Phyllis Huerta, Crystal Pope, Betty Miller and Jerry
     Turnquist, for engaging students in a unique, multidisciplinary “Neighborhood Walk”
     activity.
 10. Kirk Lawler for photographing downtown Elgin’s historic architectural character for over

3 years.
 11. Diana Maybank for the restoration of her home at 171 N. Porter Street.
 12. Dan and Patricia Miller for their combined efforts, involvement and leadership in
     assisting neighbors with restoration projects.
 13. Steven Stroud for compiling of the book, “There Used To Be: A Look Back at Elgin’s
     Architectural Heritage.”

2007
 1. Mary Hill – George Van de Voorde Outstanding Service Award - for Promoting Elgin's
     heritage through her research and tours of Elgin, and her stewardship with the Elgin
     Area Historical Society
 2. Community Crisis Center – William Stickling Award -for renovations done by a non-
     profit social service agency to their building at 37 S. Geneva Street.
 3. Quality Painting and Carpentry – Artisan Award - Recognizing their exemplary work in
     the preservation and restoration of Elgin’s architectural heritage.
 4. Charles Keysor for removing a historically inappropriate porch and replacing it with one
     that was historically accurate.
 5. Toll Brothers for donating $73,000.00 in financial and in-kind assistance to restore St.
     Joseph's Church rectory building.
 6. Fran Alft for volunteering at the Elgin Area Historical Society since 1991, and working at
     the museum for the last 16 years.
 7. Siegle Family Foundation & Elgin Area Historical Society for sponsoring and creating
     the exhibit on the Jewish experience.
 8. Lucy Elliot for planning and implementing the annual Youth History Fair.
 9. Downtown Neighborhood Association for Promoting the historic architecture of the
     center city area through various programs including the treasure hunt of downtown
     buildings.
 10. Patricia Maynard, Carole Seid, Gerald Sorensen, Donald Souder and Brian Anderson
     for Nominating the D.C. Cook/Lovell Area Historic District.
 11. Elgin Leadership Academy Class of 2005-2006 for Producing the coloring book
     “Exploring Elgin.”

2008
 1. John and Jeri McCue - William Stickling Memorial Award -for the adaptive reuse
    of the Elgin Federated Savings Bank.
 2. John Anderson and Paul Cayez for restoring numerous homes throughout the city’s
    historic districts.
 3. Gail Borden Library Staff and Mike Alft for compiling and publishing ‘Elgin: A Women’s
    City.’
 4. Dave Buck for researching and nominating Wing Park Golf Course as a local landmark
    and to the National Register of Historic Places.

5. Jerry Turnquist for continuing to delight Elginites with his “Way Back When” column in
     the Daily Herald.
 6. George Rawlinson for publishing numerous books on local history.
 7. Elizabeth Marston for ten years of dedicated services as the Museum Director of the
     Elgin Area Historical Society.
 8. Michael Powers for his debut book “All-American Stories: Elgin Myths and Memories.”
 9. The Appellate Court and Robert Mangan for maintaining and preserving an excellent
     example of mid-century modern architecture.
 10. John and Thelma Avampato for restoring the porches to match a historical photograph.
 11. Sarosh Saher for his service to the city as the Historic Preservation Specialist.

2009
 1. Keith Farnham –William Stickling Memorial Award- 1000 Preston Avenue, Dairy Lofts
 2. Elgin Area Historical Society, Jean Keltner, Audree Riddle, George Rowe and David
     Siegenthaler for cataloguing, researching, displaying, and preserving the history of the
     Lisa Boehm School of Dance.
 3. Gail Borden Library for the Tapestry of Freedom Project.
 4. Elgin Veterans Memorial Park Committee for overseeing the construction of Veteran’s
     Memorial Park.
 5. Summit Park Neighbors & Settlement and Ernie Broadnax for raising awareness of the
     history of the area and The Settlement and promoting neighborhood pride.
 6. South West Area Neighbors for raising awareness of the history of the area and
     promoting neighborhood pride.
 7. Ted Whittington for sorting, organizing, scanning and archiving the extensive collection
     of historic documents from Grace Methodist Church.
 8. Carlos Rivera for restoring 11 N Liberty Street.
 9. Christopher and Rebekah Berry for restoring their front porch to match a historic
     photograph.
 10. Doug Rockar and Caroline Oswald for restoring the open patio on their historic home.

2010
 1. Kathy Moore & Stacey Reynolds for educating and encouraging the neighborhood
    residents to “plaque their homes.”
 2. Dawn Hartney for organizing the SWAN Sears Kit Home Tour.
 3. Laurie Faith Gibson-Aiello for raising public awareness regarding the Lord’s Park Zoo.
 4. First Congregational United Church of Christ for remodeling the 1960’s addition to be
    more compatible with the historic church.
 5. Habitat for Humanity of the Northern Fox Valley for partnering with the City of Elgin to
    rehabilitate 467 Division Street.
 6. Paul Eyrich for restoring his historic home at 809 N Spring Street.
 7. JB Harris and Company for rehabilitating homes throughout Elgin for almost 15 years.

2011
 1.   Paul Schmolke for leading the West Star team to restore 351 Griswold
 2.   Carl Brahms and Nicole Tuhy Brahms for restoring their front porch.
 3.   Doug Tomsha for his volunteer efforts at the Elgin History Museum.
 4.   Elgin Community College History Committee for publishing The Community’s College:
      Sixty Years of Elgin Community College.
 5.   Black History Family Festival for fostering awareness and appreciation for black history
      in Elgin.
 6.   Police Academy Alumni Association for creating the history displays in the lobby of
      Police Headquarters.
 7.   Dan Miller - Artisan Award- for recreating architectural details for homeowners
      throughout Elgin.
 8.   Steve Stroud - George Van De Voorde Award - for lifetime achievement in promoting
      Elgin’s heritage.

2012
 1.   Ben and Jessica Feuzer – Garage Reconstruction
 2.   Joshua and Julie Harris – House Rehabilitation
 3.   Krissy Palermo – House Rehabilitation
 4.   Maureen McWaid and Steve Thoren – Wing Mansion Rehabilitation
 5.   Habitat for Humanity of Northern Fox Valley – House Rehabilitations
 6.   Robert Tierney – House Rehabilitation
 7.   Dann and Nancy Farquhar – House Rehabilitation
 8.   Jennifer Fritz – Public Service to City of Elgin
 9.   Elgin History Museum – Timeline History Exhibits

2013
 1. Elgin Fire Barn No. 5 Museum - Museum Volunteer historic preservation commitment
 2. Len Govednik - Historic preservation of bungalow
 3. Elgin Area Historical Society - Art Deco in Elgin Video and Seminar
 4. Laura Stroud - Volunteerism for Cemetery Walk 25th Anniversary
 5. Bill Decker - 530 Liberty St. Rehab with Architectural Grant
 6. Dana Olson - Elgin History Museum volunteer effort in cataloging artifacts and
    documents
 7. Citizens Police Academy Alumni Association - Elgin Police Department Horse Drawn
    Wagon Replica
 8. George Rowe - Windmill Restoration
 9. Susan Giugliano - Artisan Award - 402 N. Spring St. interior historic rehabilitation

2014
 1. PAT AND DAN MILLER for their restoration of 165 S. Gifford Street.
 2. 1912 ROAD RACE TROPHY DONORS: Jim Anderson, Ken Barnhart, Harry Blizzard, Maury Dyer,
    Fox Valley Model T Car Club Terry Gable, Ted Heise, Phred Hollister, Aubrey Newel,
    Richard Renner, Dennis Roxworthy, Paul Sommer, and Jeff White for their successful
    auction bid and contribution of the 1912 Elgin Road Race Illinois Cup to the Elgin History
    Museum.
 3. CINDY WALDEN for her ten years of service to the Elgin Heritage Commission.
 4. DAVID NELSON for his public outreach effort and role in expanding the Elgin History
    Museum’s educational programs.
 5. ELGIN HIGH SCHOOL ARCHIVE VOLUNTEER COMMITTEE:
    Ricky Harris, Chandler Swan, Pat Sanders, Barb Cook, and Judy Sorton for their
    organization of the school’s extensive archives and their effort to promote the school’s
    history to a new generation.
 6. KURT KRESMERY for his restoration of 315-317 DuPage Street.
 7. STEVE STROUD for his contribution to Elgin’s house/cemetery research and digitization of
    records/database development.
 8. ADMIRERS OF BEAUTIFUL OLD DWELLINGS OF ELGIN (ABODE) for the organization’s promotion
    of and commitment to the preservation of Elgin’s historic houses.
 9. STEVE ROSBOROUGH & STAFF SGT. BRAD ROSBOROUGH for their restoration of 217 Michigan
    Street, 221 Michigan Street, and 248 Michigan Street.

2015
 1. Altrusa International Club - Claire Ollayos
    For over 50 years of service as a women’s civic organization in promoting literacy,
    community health and education in the community.
 2. Gail Borden Public Library - Elgin Area Historical Society
    For the Gail Borden Public Library Timeline Exhibit
 3. Paul Jean Bednar - Dan Miller
    For the restoration of the properties at 141 Hill, 12 Rugby and 16 Rugby Place.
 4. Tom and Maureen Lee 359 Park - Dan Miller
    For the restoration of their home at 359 Park Street (received the Henry Jensen Award)
 5. Anne LoCascio - Elizabeth Marston Elgin History Museum
    For promoting an awareness of Elgin’s heritage through program publicity at the Elgin
    History Museum.
 6. Tribute to the Troops - Michael Hunziker
    For publicly honoring the heritage of Elgin’s veterans through this annual radio show.
 7. Downtown Neighborhood Association’s Design Committee – Deirdre White, DNA
    For preparing the nomination to list the downtown commercial district on the National
    Register of Historic Places.

2016
 1. Admirers of Beautiful Old Dwellings of Elgin for their spark grant program, begun in
    2014, that helps fund projects supporting the integrity of Elgin’s historic homes.
 2. David J. Nelson for educating and promoting an awareness of Elgin’s heritage through
    his seven piano concerts titled, “Reflections: Elgin Flowing through Time, The 1920s-
    1970s.”
 3. Dr. Rise Jones for creating and organizing an interactive program titled, “Each One,
    Reach One,” a live program services that was captured on film, featuring recollections of
    Elgin residents during the Civil Rights movement.
 4. Kimberly Bauer for promoting an awareness of Elgin’s heritage through her blog,
    “Pedaling Preservation – Exploring Elgin, Illinois one building at a time.”
 5. Elgin Bungalow Initiative for their commitment in documenting, cataloging and creating
    interest in establishing the new Elgin Bungalow Thematic Historic District
 6. Project 2-3-1 for the creation of a documentary film and traveling exhibit that provided
    a timely look at African-American history from a local perspective.
 7. Tim Ramseyer & Patrick Koziol for their historically sensitive rehabilitation of 211
    Michigan Street. Mr. Ramseyer and Mr. Koziol will be receiving The Henry Jensen
    Award.
 8. Bill Briska for his leadership and dedication in preserving Elgin’s heritage for the past 30
    years through his volunteer efforts, publications, events, preservation projects and
    managing historical organizations. Mr. Briska will be receiving the Mayor George Van De
    Voorde Outstanding Service Award.

2017
 1. Christopher & Rebekah Berry for their exterior and interior rehabilitation of 442
    DuPage Street
 2. Glen & Susan Holland for rehabilitating, upgrading and maintain the historic McClure
    family properties located at 770 W. Highland Avenue and 272 McClure Avenue
 3. Grant Born for revitalizing and rehabilitating the cloistered buildings located at 265,
    263-267 and 269-271 Douglas Avenue
 4. Jacqueline Vossler & Richard Renner for their numerous contributions to the Elgin
    History Museum
 5. Jennifer Fukala for her extensive contributions to the Near West Neighborhood and
    Elgin Heritage

6. Karen TerHorst & Perry Pollock for their complete restoration and rehabilitation of 344
    Brook Street
 7. Ken Gough for his development and implementation of Civil War educational programs
    and his interpretation of Elgin Civil War history
 8. Jim & Kelly Langenberg for their personal hands-on effort in the restoration of their
    home located at 582 Park Street. They received the Henry Jensen Award.
 9. Linda Rock for her leadership, dedication and participation for the past 30 years as a
    steward of the Elgin History Museum and the prestigious Elgin Cemetery Walk. Linda
    received the Mayor George Van De Voorde Outstanding Service Award.

2018
 1. Capstone Development and Skender Construction: The William Stickling Award for the
    adaptive reuse of the Elgin Tower Building into the Elgin Tower Luxury Lofts.
 2. Chamber of Commerce: For organizing the Open Elgin event, which is a one day event
    that allows for residents and visitors to explore Elgin’s unique architecture.
 3. Church of the Brethren – General Offices: For preserving an excellent example of mid-
    century modern architecture and furniture of their building at 1451 Dundee Avenue as
    well as volunteering to be a part of the National Trust for Historic Preservation’s Elgin –
    Mid-Century Field Study that was conducted in November of 2017.
 4. Union National Bank: For preserving an excellent example of mid-century modern
    architecture and furniture of their building at 101 E. Chicago Street as well as
    volunteering to be a part of the National Trust for Historic Preservation’s Elgin – Mid-
    Century Field Study that was conducted in November of 2017.
 5. Elgin Golferettes: For over 65 years of service as a women’s athletic organization for
    promoting teamwork, community pride as well as their history since beginning at the
    Elgin National Watch Factory in 1951.
 6. Fire Department 150th Anniversary Committee: For commemorating the history of the
    Elgin Fire Department by hosting a celebratory event on September 16, 2017.
 7. Steve and Laura Stroud: For the continual restoration of 653 Douglas Avenue by
    bringing back the original dormers on the North elevation.
 8. George Rawlinson: For his continual volunteerism and support he has given to Elgin, its
    history and its future. He received the Mayor George Van De Voorde Outstanding
    Service Award.
 9. Jackie and Ira Marcus: For serving as role models in preservation leadership. They
    educate, advocate, and preserve Elgin history as volunteers at the Elgin History
    Museum.

2019
 1. Michael Zimmer: For his involvement and dedication to preservation in Elgin including
    volunteering on the Downtown Neighborhood Association’s Design Committee and his
    contributions in the creation of the Gifford Park Association’s Annual Historic House
    Walk webpage.
 2. Spillane and Sons: For their new construction of 277 N. Spring Street that is a sensitive
    addition to the Spring-Douglas Historic District and for their rehabilitation of 273 N.
    Spring Street.
 3. Mary Krebsbach: For her exemplary work as an artisan recreating and restoring historic
    stained glass pieces for over 25 years.
 4. Andrew Cuming and Carlos Rivera: For the restoration and rehabilitation of 225-227 E.
    Chicago Street and 80 S. Grove Avenue.
 5. Dairies to Prairies Documentary: A documentary film and traveling exhibit focused on
    Elgin’s transformation from originally prairie land to dairies and back again. This film was
    created in partnership with the Elgin History Museum, Grindstone Productions and Jerry
    Turnquist.
 6. Marquee Media: For devoting considerable space in their monthly magazine, BRAVO, to
    inform the public of the importance of historic, cultural and environmental
    preservation.
 7. Iglesia Principe de Paz: For their extraordinary interior restoration and rehabilitation of
    the historic 1892 First Universalist Church.

2020
 1. Downtown Neighborhood Association – Design Committee: For volunteering to
    restack, protect and catalog the 1923 Crocker Theater pieces for future use.
 2. Elgin Math and Science Academy: For restoring and rehabbing the 1937 Art Cabin,
    designed by Prairie School architect, John S. Van Bergen.
 3. Bluff City Cemetery – Common Grave Memorial Project: For installing a memorial
    marker at the Common Grave site for those Elgin residents who were reburied on this
    site from the Old Channing Cemetery in 1968. A tree and bench on this site were also
    installed in memory of the late Steve Stroud.
 4. “Education for All: Elgin High School – 150 years” Exhibit: For creating a unique and
    engaging exhibit celebrating Elgin High School’s 150th anniversary.
 5. Paul and Jean Bednar: For the sensitive exterior and interior rehabilitation of 706
    Douglas Avenue.
 6. East Side Neighborhood Garden: For organizing a community garden, established in
    2019, that has added tremendous value to the Elgin Historic District.
 7. Explore Elgin Area: For promoting Elgin as an architecture destination through digital
    advertising highlighting Elgin’s Historic House Tour, Open Elgin, the painted ladies, the

museums and Historic Elgin webpage to visitors outside the area as well as Elgin
     residents.
 8. John Braese: For his leadership and heavy involvement behind the Elgin Civil War Re-
     Enactment held at the Elgin Mental Health Center from 2017-2019.
 9. Mira Wojciechowska: For her tireless support and volunteerism of Elgin’s history and
     community events.
 10. Patrick Mueller and Eric Nalepka: For their sensitive rehabilitation of the exterior and
     interior of 14-16 S. Chapel Street.

2021
 1. Elgin Public Museum: For celebrating its 100 year anniversary on November 12, 2020
     with its Centennial Project.
 2. Paul Spiller: For volunteering his time for all of the plumbing installation at the 1846
     Nancy Kimball House located at 302 W. Chicago Street.
 3. Ron Lange: For overseeing the acknowledgement and documentation of Elgin’s current
     and past athletes a part of the Elgin Sports Hall of Fame.
 4. Terry Gabel & Sue Brigham: For their volunteerism and leadership in the continued
     success of the Friends of the Lords Park Zoo Organization.
 5. First Congregational Church: For their dedication to long term preservation and energy
     conservation of the 1889 church through the installation of solar panels.
 6. Rudy & Lillian Galfi: For continuing a treasured Elgin History Museum event by going
     virtual which brought thousands of online viewers to the annual cemetery walk held in
     September of 2020.
 7. Ira Marcus: For the creation of the new exhibit at the Elgin History Museum, “Art and
     Artifacts: Where History Meets Art Exhibit.”
 8. Elgin History Museum: For their “You Are Living History” documentation project that
     allows all residents to be an active contributor in recording Elgin’s recent past.
 9. Aralei Properties: For rehabbing their property located at 212-214 DuPage Street,
     located in the Elgin Downtown Commercial Historic District.
 10. Carolyn Buhrow: For her inspiring photographs of Elgin’s religious facilities and
     landmarks.
 11. George Rowe: For his 20 years of dedication to Elgin’s history. George will be receiving
     the George Van de Voorde Outstanding Service Award.