Missouri Preservation Conference 2015 Hosted at Southeast Missouri State University

This past October, Southeast Missouri State University was honored to host the 2015 Missouri Preservation Conference. This annual gathering of historic preservation professionals was a complete success, benefiting attendees, the city of Cape Girardeau, and the University. From the 21st-23rd, preservationists from all over the state learned about new developments and innovations in the field and got hands on training on proper restoration techniques.

While most of the conference events took place in the University Center, there were also a variety of unique tours offered as well. One of the most popular tours was to the Elmwood Estate in southwest Cape Girardeau. This incredibly preserved and maintained historic home is a relic of early South East Missouri history.

Another highlight was the Keynote Address by David Brown, the Executive Vice President of the National Trust for Historic Preservation. In his speech, “The Past and Future of Preservation”, Mr. Brown spoke of the urgent need for historians to embrace both continuity and change in our approach to preservation of the built environment and saving the places that matter to both Missourians and the Nation.

Many SEMO history students took advantage of this opportunity, and found ways to volunteer at the conference. We all benefited greatly from this professional experience and had a ton of fun at the same time! 

All aboard the tour bus

Busy vendor area

Keynote Address from David Brown to kick off the conference

Elmwood Estate, a true architectural delight

Hands on historic wooden window repair

Legacy Awards Dinner: These one-time only awards honored the host city and people and organizations that have contributed to Cape Girardeau's preservation success story

Professional panel for students

SEMO students get involved

Tour of Cape Girardeau's Civil War forts

Typical conference session

Volunteer fun!

Volunteers working hard