Building partnerships that enhance our economic and cultural future through the preservation of Iowa's historic resources.
The future of Iowa is sustainable communities with an authentic sense of place created by their important historic structures. The rehabilitation and reuse of our historic buildings is both economically attractive and environmentally responsible; it is important to citizens and visitors to our state as well as for future generations.
Iowa Programs
Iowa’s Most Endangered Properties
Iowa’s Most Endangered Properties began in 1995 to show Iowans the special buildings and historic sites that are slowly and gradually slipping away from us. The program provides an excellent resource for media coverage and introduces endangered property owners to preservation advocates and resources that can help preserve their historic property.
Preservation at Its Best Awards
Each year Preservation Iowa seeks to honor statewide successes through the “Preservation at its Best Awards”. In doing so, we hope to inspire others to take action to preserve, protect, and promote Iowa’s historic resources. Additionally these projects highlight the work being done around the state to preserve our historic infrastructures by re-purposing them to allow reintegration into their local communities.
Property Types
Preservation Iowa focuses on providing information, raising awareness and protecting property types that hold special significance for Iowans.
Its efforts encompass a wide range of historic resources, including residential buildings, commercial and industrial structures, sacred places, schools, and movie theaters, as well as rural properties such as farmsteads and barns.
Residential
Movie Theaters
Sacred Places
Commercial & Industrial
Schools
Farmsteads & Barns
Check out Section 106 in the News for information on Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act and why it is currently a hot topic of discussion.
Preservation News from across the State and Nation
Mark your calendar and plan to attend this important webinar Section 106 Under Threat: Guidance for Advocates. This will take place on August 24, 2026 at 1PM central. Register here: https://savingplaces.org/section106 If you are not able to attend, register and receive the recording after the webinar.
On July 1, 2026, the National Park Service listed the Chautauqua Park and Ridgewood Historic District in Ames (Story County) on the National Register of Historic Places for its architectural significance. This nine-block residential neighborhood was established in 1910 and 1916 and contains 186 contributing buildings representing Craftsman, Colonial Revival, Tudor Revival, Cape Cod Cottage and Ranch styles. Additionally, the neighborhood, with its abundant mature trees and curved streets, illustrates picturesque urban planning principles. Congratulations Ames! #IowaHistory #iowahistory #iowaarchitecture #amesiowa
From Cultural Heritage Partners: For nearly 60 years, Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act has given communities, Tribal Nations, and preservationists a seat at the table when federal projects threaten historic and sacred places. That protection is now at risk. The ACHP rulemaking would make tribal consultation optional and narrow the very definition of a historic property—weakening one of our most important preservation tools. We won't let that happen. Join the Fight Back Coalition to receive advocacy alerts and plug into a working group where you can join the fight. See our latest advocacy alert here: https://mailchi.mp/culturalheri.../join-fight-back-coalition
Looking for a fun way to start your weekend? On Friday evening see Des Moines from a new perspective. Join the Iowa Architectural Foundation for Architecture on the Move, monthly guided walking tour series that explores the stories behind the buildings and neighborhoods that shape our community. Through a special partnership with the Iowa Architectural Foundation, Preservation Iowa members can receive free tickets to the IAF’s tours of Downtown Des Moines. Members at the Tudor Revival, Prairie School, Pediment and Cornice levels are eligible for these tickets. 📅 Friday, August 14 🕠 Tour begins at 5:30 PM Advance registration is encouraged. Reserve your spot at: AOM2026.eventbrite.com. We hope to see you there! Can't make it this Friday? Tours will also be held on September 11.
This from our partners at the National Conference of State Historic Preservation Officers. What's next for the Section 106 rulemaking? Read NCSHPO & National Trust for Historic Preservation comments on the proposed rule, get the latest on the federal rulemaking process, and see how Congress's parallel Section 106 discussions fit into the bigger picture. https://ncshpo.org/2026/08/06/section-106-rulemaking-enters-its-next-phase/
If you did not have an opportunity to attend the National Trust for Historic Preservation's webinar, you can watch a recording and view lots of resources here: https://savingplaces.org/section106 Want to learn more and take action? The Trust is sponsoring a second webinar on August 12 at 1:00pm (Central). Register here: https://savingplaces-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/3517857927872/WN_DKv-3Q7dQ7mTOAEScP4ldA#/registration
