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
Legislative Update: Key Preservation Priorities on the Hill Thursday, September 17 1:00 pm CENTRAL The National Trust’s Government Relations team will break down the current legislative landscape, key preservation priorities, and what’s ahead. Whether you’re joining us on September 24 for Advocacy Day in Washington, D.C. or simply want to make your voice heard, this briefing will help you advocate with greater clarity and impact. Can't make it live? Register anyway to receive the recording. Register here: https://savingplaces-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/1617860443479/WN_xips2slNSOKBzl6vVYTyRg#/registration
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. September 11 🕠 Tour begins at 5:30 PM Advance registration is encouraged. Reserve your spot at: AOM2026.eventbrite.com. We hope to see you there!
The National Trust for Historic Preservation is now accepting nominations for the 2027 list of America’s 11 Most Endangered Historic Places. For 40 years, the National Trust’s 11 Most list has uplifted and catalyzed community-led preservation work at over 380 sites through a high-impact advocacy and public awareness campaign resulting in increased visibility and new resources to save and activate historic places for the public good. Watch the video to learn more about how 11 Most helps save places. The deadline to submit a nomination is October 1, 2026. For more information and a link to the nomination form, visit the FAQ. https://savingplaces.org/americas-most-endangered-historic-places
Maintenance Essentials for Existing Masonry Buildings--FREE Webinar from the International Masonry Institute Tuesday, September 8, 2026 | 11am Central Time 1 LU/HSW Proactive maintenance is essential to preserving the safety, performance, and value of masonry buildings, both historic and modern. Explore key considerations for building owners and design professionals to consider when managing cyclical or deferred maintenance. You’ll learn how regular inspections and routine upkeep, including cleaning, repointing, caulking, and crack repair, help prevent deterioration and reduce the need for costly capital projects. We’ll also discuss when more extensive interventions, like masonry unit replacement or structural repairs, become necessary to address long-term issues. By understanding the full range of maintenance practices, you’ll be equipped to extend the life of masonry structures, ensure occupant safety, and protect building integrity for future generations. Register here:
Did you miss the webinar about what historic preservation commissions should know about the proposed changes to Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act? You're in luck! It was recorded and you can access that recording here: https://www.bigmarker.com/national-alliance-of-preserv/section-106-under-threat-what-these-proposed-changes-mean-for-preservation-at-the-local-level?bmid=fda5c6eb11a0&bma=a77cf6fdf0de&bmi=e1fe87b2c781&bmid_type=member
Preservation Iowa joins more than 600 other preservation organizations across the country in signing an open letter asking Congress to protect and strengthen Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act. Read the letter here:
