Golden Hammer award returns to Jefferson City

Adding curb appeal

Six local historic treasures will be recognized this year as their owners have put a new shine to their curb appeal.

The Historic City of Jefferson has awarded the Golden Hammer to property owners since the recognition program began in 2008.

The award celebrates those who are restoring properties and contributing to the revitalization of older neighborhoods, said Laura Ward, spokesman for the selection committee.

Recognized properties have crossed the east and west sides of town, as well as the heart of downtown and the South Side.

"We have recognized buildings that were once thriving businesses, buildings that are still thriving businesses, stately historic homes and modest historic homes," Ward said. "This is what is so unique of our older neighborhoods. ... There was such a diverse collection of buildings ... all types of homes varying in architectural style and size."

The 2014 award winners were: the Bockrath Home in the 300 block of West Dunklin Street, 716 and 720 E. High St., 1007 E. McCarty St., 1317 Moreau Drive, 805 Mulberry St. and 1302 Moreau Drive.

They were a farmhouse, a hidden bungalow, a colonial revival foursquare, American Folk Victorian, a streetscape cleanup and a starving Second Empire design.

The Golden Hammer owners often are visual thinkers with a can-do spirit, Ward noted.

The 2015 Golden Hammer Award winners will be selected from among nominations made this year. Anyone may make a nomination. Once nominated, the selection committee will contact the property owner.

Selection criteria include the structure being older than 50 years, improvements to the overall use and appearance of the building beyond routine maintenance, and renovations must have been completed within the last five years.

"I believe this award has evolved to help recognize those who first settled in these neighborhoods, building their homes and businesses in architectural styles that were reminiscent to the styles of their homeland, hence, contributing to the growth of our city," Ward said.

The historic preservation-focused not-for-profit also created this program to encourage neighbors and other property owners to follow suit.

"I believe it has made a difference," Ward said. "Through education, we can make more informed decisions regarding the fate of an historic property."