JCHS Accepts Preserve Independence Award

The Jackson County Historical Society was awarded the Preserve Independence Award for preservation work conducted at The 1859 Jail, Marshal’s Home & Museum by the Independence Heritage Commission. We were chosen for outstanding restoration conducted on interior and exterior portions of the Jail. Preservation work continues at the Jail and we hope to have more community involvement and donations to continue our preservation efforts. President-Elect Stephanie Rohr of the Jackson County Historical Society accepted the award on behalf of the board of directors of the Jackson County Historical Society.

In November 2019, windows were replaced along the Main Street exterior on the upper level. Emergency repairs were conducted to the northwest corner window to prevent water damage to the interior of the building. Masonry and floor joists were repaired in exterior and interior portions of the Marshal’s Home.

The Independence Heritage Commission is a nine-member body appointed by the Independence City Council to oversee the preservation, protection, and enhancement of our city’s historic resources. Guided by this mandate, the Commission continually strives to foster and encourage the restoration and rehabilitation of buildings within neighborhoods and commercial districts throughout Independence and promote the city’s rich history.

Historic Preservation Awards were created by the Commission to recognize outstanding efforts in preservation by individuals, groups, and organizations. Awards are presented at the first City Council Meeting in May as part of Independence’s annual celebration of National Historic Preservation Month. Preservation Month is a nation-wide celebration and is co-sponsored with the City of Independence by the National Trust for Historic Preservation.