Dallas, a city renowned for its vibrant growth and modern skyline, also boasts a rich tapestry of history, culture, and architectural heritage. Annually, Preservation Dallas champions the efforts to safeguard this invaluable legacy, recognizing outstanding achievements in historic preservation. The organization’s highly anticipated Preservation Achievement Awards not only highlight monumental preservation projects involving historic buildings and residences but also shine a spotlight on the dedicated individuals and visionary businesses whose contributions resonate deeply within the Dallas historic preservation community.
While the tangible structures often capture immediate attention, the spirit of preservation encompasses much more than just bricks and mortar. It’s about understanding, valuing, and sustaining the stories, cultures, and communities that these historical sites represent. This broader philosophy is eloquently captured by the Special Recognition awards, which honor those who work tirelessly behind the scenes, offering unique skills, profound knowledge, or simply immense dedication and “sweat equity” to ensure Dallas’s past thrives in its future.
“Historic preservation tends to focus on architecture, and understandably so; however, preservation is not just about buildings. It’s about culture and community. Many people are working behind the scenes in historic preservation. They may do uncommon jobs, lend knowledge to our efforts, or just put in a lot of sweat equity, and we want to recognize their contributions.”
Norman Alston, FAIA- Board President, Preservation Dallas
This sentiment perfectly encapsulates the ethos of the Preservation Dallas Awards. They serve as a crucial platform to acknowledge the diverse spectrum of work involved in preserving Dallas’s unique identity—from meticulously restoring a historic facade to documenting untold narratives. These contributions are vital not only for maintaining the aesthetic appeal of our urban core but also for enriching our collective understanding of where we come from and where we are headed as a community. The 24th annual awards ceremony, promising an evening of celebration and inspiration, will be held on Wednesday evening, May 17th, at the distinguished Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum, with WFAA’s Jason Wheeler gracefully serving as the emcee for the event.
Celebrating Excellence: The 2023 Preservation Achievement Award Honorees
The 2023 Preservation Achievement Awards ceremony promises to be an evening dedicated to recognizing the extraordinary individuals and organizations that have made significant strides in preserving Dallas’s cherished heritage. From chronicling untold stories to meticulously restoring architectural gems, each honoree embodies a profound commitment to protecting the city’s unique character. These awards not only celebrate past achievements but also inspire future generations to engage in the vital work of historic preservation, ensuring that Dallas’s rich past continues to inform and enrich its future.
Dorothy Savage Award: Carol Roark
The Dorothy Savage Award is bestowed upon individuals who demonstrate significant and ongoing contributions to the preservation of Dallas’s neighborhoods and urban core. This year, the esteemed recipient is Carol Roark, a name synonymous with meticulous historical documentation and a profound understanding of Texas heritage. As the former manager of the Special Collections Division of the Dallas Public Library, Carol Roark has been instrumental in safeguarding countless irreplaceable historical records, photographs, and artifacts that tell the story of Dallas and its surrounding regions. Her work has provided an invaluable resource for historians, researchers, and the general public alike, illuminating the city’s evolution through primary sources. Furthermore, her role as chair of the Texas Historical Commission’s National Register State Board of Review underscores her expertise in identifying and protecting historically significant sites across the state. Carol’s literary contributions, including “Fort Worth and Tarrant County” and “Fort Worth Then & Now,” reflect her dedication to making local history accessible and engaging. Her relentless efforts have profoundly shaped how Dallas understands and cherishes its past, making her an exemplary choice for an award that honors sustained dedication to preservation.
Craftsmanship Award: Eric Samuelsen
In the world of historic preservation, true craftsmanship is an art form, a specialized skill that breathes new life into aged objects and structures while respecting their original integrity. The Craftsmanship Award recognizes an individual dedicated to a specific craft for preservation purposes, and this year, it proudly goes to Eric Samuelsen. Since founding Samuelsen Refinishing in 1981, Eric has dedicated over four decades to the intricate art of restoration. His hands have brought renewed life to an astonishing array of items, from delicate antique furniture pieces that hold generations of stories to grand pianos whose melodies once filled historic Dallas homes. Eric’s work is not merely about repair; it is about understanding the materials, the techniques, and the historical context of each piece, ensuring that every restoration is executed with authenticity and an unwavering commitment to quality. His masterful skill preserves not just objects, but also the historical techniques and aesthetic values of bygone eras, making him an invaluable asset to the preservation community in Dallas and beyond.
Stewardship Award: Cheryl & Kevin Vogel for Valley House Gallery & Sculpture Garden
The Stewardship Award is a tribute to a long-term commitment to preserving a historic building or site, recognizing those who tirelessly work to maintain and elevate places of cultural significance. This year, Cheryl and Kevin Vogel are honored for their exemplary stewardship of the Valley House Gallery & Sculpture Garden. Founded in 1953 by Kevin’s pioneering parents, Valley House Gallery was conceived with a visionary mission: to showcase both regional and international artists, fostering a dynamic dialogue between diverse artistic expressions. This bold vision profoundly changed the cultural landscape of Dallas, firmly establishing the city as a significant player in the global art world. Under Cheryl and Kevin’s devoted care, the gallery and its stunning sculpture garden have not only continued but flourished, maintaining their original integrity while adapting to contemporary artistic currents. Their sustained dedication ensures that this historic site remains a vibrant cultural hub, a testament to the enduring power of art and the importance of preserving the places where creativity blossoms. Their work ensures that the legacy of innovation and artistic appreciation continues for future generations, anchoring a critical piece of Dallas’s artistic heritage.
Spirit of Preservation Award: Dr. George E. Keaton
The Spirit of Preservation Award celebrates an individual who brings forth the passion and leadership necessary to inspire and guide others within our community towards preservation goals. This year, the award posthumously honors the late Dr. George E. Keaton, Jr., a true visionary whose legacy continues to resonate throughout Dallas. Dr. Keaton founded Remembering Black Dallas, an organization dedicated to preserving the often-overlooked stories and histories of Dallas’s Black community—what he affectionately referred to as the city’s “hidden history.” For over three decades, as an educator and guidance counselor within the DISD, Dr. Keaton deeply impacted countless lives, instilling a sense of pride and historical consciousness. His pioneering work shed light on significant historical narratives that might otherwise have been lost, ensuring that the full, rich tapestry of Dallas’s past is acknowledged and celebrated. Through his tireless efforts, he inspired a new generation of activists, historians, and community leaders to continue his vital work, cementing his legacy as a beacon of historical advocacy and cultural pride. Reggie Small will graciously accept this prestigious award on behalf of Dr. Keaton, ensuring his spirit of preservation continues to ignite change.
Gail Thomas Patterson Award: Mark Martinek, Jay Baker, and Katherine D. Seale
The Gail Thomas Patterson Award is a distinguished honor reserved for an outstanding restoration project completed to exacting standards, often representing a triumph over significant challenges. This year, the award collectively recognizes Mark Martinek, Jay Baker, and Katherine D. Seale for their extraordinary efforts in the preservation and restoration of the Rosenfield House. This Queen Anne Victorian masterpiece, built for Max Rosenfeld in the mid-1880s, holds a special place in Dallas’s architectural history as one of the city’s earliest residences. Affectionately known as “The Blue House,” this architectural gem faced the imminent threat of demolition, a fate all too common for historic structures. However, through the concerted efforts of these dedicated individuals, the Rosenfield House was miraculously saved from the wrecking ball. The monumental undertaking involved not only the intricate restoration of its period details but also the complex process of moving the entire structure to a new location. As the saying goes, it truly “took a village,” and the collaborative spirit and unwavering commitment demonstrated by Martinek, Baker, and Seale exemplify the very best of preservation work. Their meticulous attention to historical accuracy and their dedication to overcoming logistical hurdles have ensured that this iconic Dallas landmark will continue to grace the city for generations to come, standing as a testament to what can be achieved with passion and precise execution.
Preservation Education Award: Robert Wilonsky
Effective communication is a cornerstone of successful preservation efforts, and the Preservation Education Award honors those who produce publications or media that enlighten the general public about the invaluable worth of historic preservation and our historic resources. This year’s recipient, Robert Wilonsky, is a master storyteller whose writing has captivated, informed, and entertained Dallasites for decades. Through his insightful journalism, Robert has consistently brought complex historic issues and vital preservation projects, such as the intricate restoration of the Rosenfield House, into the public consciousness. His articles go beyond mere reporting, delving into the architectural significance, cultural impact, and the human stories behind preservation endeavors. By making these topics accessible and engaging, Wilonsky has played a crucial role in fostering a greater appreciation for Dallas’s heritage among a broad audience. His ability to distill intricate historical details and preservation challenges into compelling narratives has undoubtedly educated countless individuals, sparking interest and advocating for the ongoing protection of our city’s treasured past. He is a true educator through the power of the written word.
Volunteer Honor Award: Julie Travis
The true unsung heroes of the preservation movement are often the dedicated volunteers who pour their time, energy, and passion into critical work that, while not always glamorous, is absolutely essential. The Volunteer Honor Award recognizes an individual who has made exceptional contributions to assist Preservation Dallas, and this year, it proudly acknowledges Julie Travis. For over a decade, Julie has been a weekly volunteer, consistently demonstrating an unwavering commitment to the organization’s mission. Her instrumental work in organizing the extensive Preservation Dallas resource files has created an invaluable asset for researchers, historians, and the general public. Before her systematic efforts, navigating these crucial archives could be a daunting task; now, thanks to Julie’s meticulous organization, vital information on Dallas’s historic buildings, districts, and notable figures is easily accessible. Her consistent dedication, often behind the scenes, directly empowers greater understanding and successful preservation outcomes. Julie Travis embodies the spirit of selfless service, proving that the consistent efforts of a committed volunteer can leave an indelible mark on an entire community’s ability to connect with its past.
Preservation Advocacy Award: Preservation Dallas Education Committee for DISD Historic Schools Research Project
The Preservation Advocacy Award celebrates a specific advocacy project that significantly advances an organization’s mission, demonstrating leadership and impactful action. This year, the award deservedly goes to the Preservation Dallas Education Committee for their monumental DISD Historic Schools Research Project. For too long, there was a critical void in Dallas: no comprehensive, current, or single source of documentation existed for the historic schools within the Dallas Independent School District (DISD). Recognizing this significant gap, a dedicated team of 20 Preservation Dallas members embarked on an ambitious five-year endeavor. Their tireless commitment involved researching an astonishing 112 historic schools, meticulously compiling data, photographs, and architectural details. The result is an invaluable resource that serves not only the preservation community but also educators, urban planners, and the broader public. This project not only documents the architectural heritage of these institutions but also underscores their profound social and cultural significance in shaping generations of Dallasites. This advocacy project stands as a testament to the power of collective effort in filling critical information gaps and providing the foundation for future preservation initiatives for these vital community landmarks.
Historic Cornerstone Business Award: Texas Paint and Wallpaper
The Historic Cornerstone Business Award recognizes a business with a long-term connection of over 30 years to the Dallas community, particularly one offering exceptional service to the construction and preservation sectors. This year, Texas Paint and Wallpaper, a beloved local institution celebrating its remarkable 75th anniversary, is the proud recipient. Few businesses embody the spirit of sustained excellence and specialized knowledge like Texas Paint and Wallpaper. Their team possesses an unparalleled expertise in the nuances of historic paint colors and wallpaper patterns. They can effortlessly match a minuscule paint chip salvaged from a turn-of-the-century house, precisely identify the origin and era of a faded wallpaper scrap, and provide invaluable advice on historically appropriate color palettes for conservation projects or homes situated within historic districts. Their commitment extends beyond mere sales; it’s about providing guidance rooted in deep historical understanding, helping homeowners and preservationists maintain the authentic character of Dallas’s treasured properties. For over three-quarters of a century, Texas Paint and Wallpaper has been more than just a supplier; they have been a trusted partner and an invaluable resource for anyone dedicated to preserving the aesthetic integrity of Dallas’s architectural heritage.
Join the Celebration: How to Attend
Don’t miss the opportunity to celebrate these outstanding achievements and contribute to the ongoing legacy of historic preservation in Dallas. The 24th annual Preservation Dallas Awards ceremony is a chance to connect with fellow enthusiasts, learn more about critical projects, and honor the individuals and businesses making a real difference in our community. Tickets for this inspiring evening are readily available for purchase on EventBrite. For direct access to ticket information and event details, please visit the Preservation Dallas website at http://www.preservationdallas.org/2023-awards. Your attendance supports the vital work of Preservation Dallas and reinforces the collective commitment to safeguarding the historical and cultural fabric that makes our city truly unique.