ORCHIDS AND ONIONS AWARDS ARCHIVE
2023 ORCHIDS AND ONIONS awards archive
2023 orchid AWARD WINNERS ANNOUNCED!
Recognition and celebration of historic preservation “done right” is too important to let slip by! The Onion is also an important way to highlight when things are “done wrong” when they didn’t have to be.
A heartfelt thank you to our preservation awards celebration attendees and award recipients!
2023 46TH ANNUAL ORCHIDS AND ONIONS AWARDS
Preservation Idaho would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to the recipients and attendees of the 46th Annual Orchids and Onions Awards. We celebrated this momentous occasion on Saturday, July 22nd at the TRICA building in Hyde Park, Boise located in the North End Historic District. For forty-six years, we have dedicated ourselves to recognizing and honoring individuals and organizations who have made positive contributions to historic preservation. The importance of acknowledging and celebrating historic preservation "done right" cannot be overstated.
Special recognition goes to Dan Everhart, a dedicated volunteer and our talented emcee, for his entertaining and inspiring awards presentation. The reception provided a platform for Idahoans to come together, fostering thought-provoking discussions about deserving individuals and projects that earned the prestigious Orchid award.
We extend our sincere congratulations once again to all the awardees whose names are listed below. Furthermore, we would like to thank our community and the loyal members of Preservation Idaho for their unwavering commitment and for joining us!
We celebrated a diverse range of outstanding projects and individuals in the field of historic preservation. Among the notable winners were projects that demonstrated remarkable restoration efforts and adherence to the Secretary of the Interior's Standards that included the Arctic Point Fire Lookout Restoration in the Payette National Forest, the Gene Harris Bandshell in Boise, the Historic Tolleth Home / Hidden Gem Events in Meridian, the Purpose Center (Petersen Building) in Pocatello, and the Rocky Point Lodge in Coeur d'Alene. The Erma Hayman House was recognized for its tasteful restoration and addition to an existing building. We are fortunate to have this cultural and historic resource in the River Street Neighborhood in Boise. And, congratulations to St. Agnes Catholic Church in Weiser for being awarded the Heritage Stewardship award. Their dedication to the long-term maintenance and care of this important historic and architecturally significant church exemplifies their commitment to historic preservation.
Individuals who displayed exceptional dedication to the craft of rehabilitation were also acknowledged. Three individuals - Edgar Allen, Larry Swan, and Dave LeClair - were rightfully acknowledged for their invaluable efforts in restoring the historic Trapper Cabin located in the Payette National Forest. This project is just one among several remarkable endeavors they have accomplished together. Susie Osgood, recognized in the Distinguished Preservationist category, was honored for her innovative work in advancing historic preservation in Idaho through direct projects and education. In the Friend of Preservation category, Cheri and Steve Clausen were awarded for their exceptional service to historic preservation in Weiser. Their outstanding efforts in this field were truly commendable.
Preservation Idaho is proud to highlight these accomplishments and encourages continued efforts in protecting and celebrating Idaho's rich architectural and cultural legacy.
An independent committee of preservationists, historians, and architects was appointed to review nominations. This committee evaluated each nomination to determine its suitability for recognition in its respective category. We extend our sincere gratitude to the review committee for their invaluable contributions.
We would also like to express our deepest thanks to our generous sponsors, who made this event possible: To Jon Swarthout, Annie Reeder, and Lisa Hunter at TRICA for providing the venue and support, Boise Brewing (Steve Trout), Clara's Sweet Treats, Hayden Beverage, Parilla Grill, Roots Family History, and Brittney Scigliano. Their support enabled us to create an enjoyable experience for our guests.
Furthermore, we are grateful for the dedication of our hardworking volunteers, whose efforts were instrumental in ensuring the success of this event. Lindsay Erb, Dan Everhart, Matt Whitlock, and Diana Wright, we appreciate your commitment. We would also like to acknowledge the contributions of the Preservation Idaho Board Members who also volunteered: Paula Benson, Stephen Bond Garvan, Julia Oxarango-Ingram, Brittney Scigliano, Doug Stan, Angie Steele, and Jason Tippeconnic Fox. Your leadership and guidance were essential in shaping this celebration.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to all our partners, deserving Orchid Award recipients, and the guests who attended the 46th Annual Orchids and Onions Celebration. Your presence and support played a significant role in making this celebration memorable.
2023 Preservation Orchid Awards Recipients
Orchids were granted to outstanding examples of preservation projects or practices in the following categories:
Building Projects and Programs
Contribution to Historic Preservation: Awarded to projects that have been successful in the tasteful restoration, addition, or remodel of an existing building (residential or commercial).
Erma Hayman House – Boise city department of Arts & History | City of Boise:
Built in 1907, this small stone house was Erma Hayman’s home from 1948 until her passing in 2009. A Black Idahoan restricted to the purchase of a home in this neighborhood, Mrs. Hayman’s story is emblematic of many of her peers in this multi-racial, multi-cultural section of Boise. Following her passing and the property’s acquisition by Capital City Development Corporation, the future of the property at 617 Ash St. was uncertain. In 2018, with the guidance of Preservation Idaho, the house was acquired by the City of Boise for preservation, rehabilitation, and interpretation. Since then, the City has overseen the site’s rehabilitation and transformation into a community asset. In September 2022, Boise City Department of Arts & History opened the house to the public. Now a historic site and cultural center that focuses on cultural heritage preservation including the collection of oral histories, the collection and digitization of family photographs from those who lived in the neighborhoods, and the collection of objects that reflect the historic nature of the neighborhood.
Excellence in Historic Preservation: Awarded to projects that have demonstrated outstanding adherence to the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards in preservation, restoration, renovation, or adaptive reuse (residential or commercial).
Arctic Point Fire Lookout Restoration – Payette National Forest:
Built in 1936, the lookout at Arctic Point is the last steel, Aermotor tower still standing within the Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness and is one of the most remote fire lookouts in the nation. Using only hand tools and pack trains to comply with wilderness regulations, a multi-year restoration of the cabin, outhouse, and tower was completed between 2018 and 2022.
Gene Harris Bandshell – Boise:
Following extensive fire damage in 2018, the well-loved Gene Harris Bandshell in Julia Davis Park was thoroughly renovated by the City of Boise to address the impact of the fire while making the historic facility accessible. Upgrades to the electrical, lighting, and audio-visual systems were also completed to modernize this 1928 performance venue while retaining its historic appearance.
Historic Tolleth Home / Hidden Gem Events – Meridian:
Built in 1907, the Harry and Della Tolleth House served as the Tolleth Family home for nearly seven decades before later conversion to use as an antique shop. After acquisition by Elizabeth Burgess in 2019, the National Register listed house was given a sensitive rehabilitation by Elizabeth and her father Tim for use as a boutique event facility with a new roof, new mechanicals, improved accessibility, and the preservation of key historic features.
Purpose Center (Petersen Building) / Craig & Mariya Yadon – Historic Downtown Pocatello:
Occupied by the Petersen Furniture Company for more than 70 years, this 1914 downtown landmark was acquired by Craig and Mariya Yadon in 2019. Working with the Idaho State Historic Preservation Office, the Yadon’s renovated the five-story building for commercial, residential, and event use while adhering to national best practices which allowed them to take advantage of federal financial incentives and give new purpose to this historic property.
Rocky Point Lodge Rehabilitation – Idaho State Parks and Verdis:
Having set vacant for twenty years, the Rocky Point Lodge has been carefully renovated by the Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation. The lodge, built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1941, is one of several rustic structures at Heyburn State Park listed in the National Register of Historic Places. The 2022 rehabilitation allows the building to be fully accessible to all users while restoring and preserving key features of the original design.
individuals and organizations
Scott Chandler Award for Excellence in Craftsmanship: Awarded to individuals worthy of acknowledgment for their body of work and contributions to their craft. This award is in memoriam to Scott Chandler, who embodied attention to detail, commitment to quality and integrity, and dedication to historic preservation.
Edgar Allen, Larry Swan, and Dave LeClair – Trapper Cabin Rehabilitation, Payette National Forest:
Built in 1936, the cabin is approximately 20 miles north of McCall, off Warren Wagon Road. It was used by trappers from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The cabin and the corral were vandalized in 2015, and it was destined for removal. The Payette NF Heritage Program applied for and received an Idaho Heritage Trust grant to stabilize the site before winter of that year. Ed Allen and Larry Swan started work in September. If it weren't for the creative ingenuity, hard work, and care for the Trapper Cabin by volunteer carpenters, the cabin would be gone. Over an eight-year period, the three volunteers systematically rehabilitated the site. Rotten logs were replaced, damage incurred from the vandalism was repaired and rebuilt, including but not limited to the covered porch, interior floor, and the windows and doors, which were all replaced with like-kind materials, design, and style. The majority of the work was completed by volunteers Ed Allen, Larry Swan, and Dave LeClair, who are retired FS employees.
Distinguished Preservationist: Awarded to professionals distinguished for service in historic preservation. Nominees for this award would be those whose job it is to further the cause of Historic Preservation in Idaho through direct projects or education.
Susie Osgood - Boise:
Susie served at the Boise National Forest for over two decades and has had a career-long effort to preserve and ensure the long-term use of significant buildings important to local communities. As the Heritage Program Manager/Forest Archaeologist, she arranged partnerships with universities, worked to preserve the Landmark Ranger Station, and was a mentor in numerous Passport in Time projects – to name a few. She also worked to preserve historic fire lookouts and cabins across the National Forest. Susie served on the board of the Idaho City Historical Foundation and has worked to oversee the Pon Yam House in Idaho City, where students can gain experience in a laboratory setting while learning the love of archaeology and Idaho's history.
Friend of Preservation: Awarded to non-professional individuals distinguished for service in historic preservation. This would include, but would not be limited to, those who volunteer for preservation organizations, historical societies, or museums.
Cheri and Steve Clausen - Weiser:
Cheri and Steve are well known for their historic preservation efforts in the Weiser community and have a lifetime of preservation work under their belts. They own several historic properties and continue to work as advocates for historic buildings. Their home became one of the first fully and correctly restored properties in Weiser and was the catalyst and inspiration for much of the preservation that followed. They helped organize the Weiser Architectural Preservation Commission and were active participants in the City's first Comprehensive Plan. They also helped develop the Historic Preservation Plan and Weiser's 1999 downtown revitalization project. Steve and Cheri’s love for the community and tireless service to historic preservation is appreciated throughout Idaho.
Heritage Stewardship: Awarded to organizations or individuals that have shown dedication to historic preservation through the long-term maintenance and care of historic, architecturally significant, or culturally important sites and structures.
St. Agnes Catholic Church - Weiser:
Since its formal dedication in 1911, St. Agnes Catholic Church has continuously served the Catholic community in Weiser. In 1978, the church was listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
What recently started as a painting project at the church became a larger restoration project, which included repairing cracked plaster, refinishing original woodwork, installing new lighting to enhance the architectural features, a new shrine, new pews, and carpet reflecting the same time period. The recent restoration efforts replicate the millwork that was added in 1984 during the renovation by Charles Hummel.
Evaluation and selection: An independent jury committee was appointed to review the nominations. The committee was made up of preservationists, historians, and architects who reviewed and evaluated the nominations for suitability in their category.
A special thanks to TRICA for sponsoring the venue for this important event.
Celebrating its 26th year, the Treasure Valley Institute for Children’s Arts (TRICA) provides meaningful, world-class experiences in the arts taught by outstanding and loving Educators, inspiring children to a stronger sense of Humanity, Community and Good Will.
With special thanks to Roots Family History. “Roots Family History is saving our legacy. Our history is kept on a combination of fragile video tapes, film reels, photographs, negatives, scrapbooks, journals, and art. We aim to archive and preserve as much of it as possible. Welcome to the Family History revolution.”
A big thanks to Hayden Beverage Company and Boise Brewing (and Steve Trout) for sponsoring the 46th Annual Orchids and Onions Award Ceremony.
2022 ORCHIDS AND ONIONS awards archive
Saturday, July 30, 2022 in Twin Falls, Idaho
Last year marked the forty-fifth year that Preservation Idaho has hosted the Orchids and Onions event, an awards ceremony designed to celebrate individuals and organizations that have contributed positively to historic preservation, as well as to bring awareness to those projects that have shown insensitivity to the state’s cultural history.
Dan Everhart offered a fun and very enlightening awards presentation. The reception in Twin Falls brought Idahoans together and offered a thought-provoking day of commentary and discussion about very deserving and important orchid winning projects and individuals.
Last year’s orchid winners represented an array of projects from adaptive reuse (the 2nd South Market in Twin Falls) to sensitive rehabilitations of historic buildings like the Historic Ola School, First Federal Savings and Loan (City of Moscow Water Dept.), Bernard Haas House in Weiser, JanyRae's Seda Art Studio, Washington Elementary School, and TRICA in Boise. And projects like the Rock Creek Station and Stricker Homesite and St. Michael's Episcopal Cathedral were awarded for their dedication to historic preservation through the long-term maintenance and care of culturally important sites and structures. Kirk Halford's innovative work to support consistent data that is more easily accessed and utilized in historic preservation and archaeology was also awarded in the Distinguished Preservationist category.
The onions went out to work done without permits that damaged our built environment and historic fabric in irreplaceable ways.
An independent review committee was appointed to review nominations. The committee was made up of preservationists, historians, and architects who review and evaluate nominations for suitability in their category. A special thank you to the review committee!
A big thank you to our sponsors (Hells Canyon Winery & Zhoo Zhoo, Holesinsky Vineyard and Winery, Milner’s Gate – Idaho Craft Brewery, Norm's Café – Vicki Collins, Preservation Twin Falls - Paul Smith, and Roots Family History), volunteers (Dan Everhart, Gaby Thomason, Karen from Ola School, Marty Thomason, and Diana Wright), Preservation Idaho Board Members, partners, orchid award winners, and guests for a very successful 45th Annual Orchids and Onions celebration reception.
2022 Awards Recipients
Building Projects and Programs
Excellence in Historic Preservation: Awarded to projects that have demonstrated outstanding adherence to the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards in preservation, restoration, renovation, or adaptive reuse (residential or commercial)
Bernard Haas House – Weiser
Washington Elementary School Addition – Boise
Contribution to Historic Preservation: Awarded to projects that have been successful in the tasteful restoration, addition, or remodel of an existing building (residential or commercial)
First Federal Savings and Loan (City of Moscow, Water Department) – Moscow
Historic Ola School restoration project – OLA
TRICA - Immanuel Methodist Episcopal Church - Boise
Preservation-Sensitive New Construction: Awarded to new construction that enhances a historic neighborhood or historical theme (residential or commercial)
Seda Studio addition – Boise
Cultural Heritage Preservation: Awarded to educational programs and projects that have made a positive impact toward the preservation of cultural heritage and open spaces, as well as the restoration and rehabilitation of historic landmarks and roadside architecture
2nd South Market – Twin Falls
individuals and organizations
Distinguished Preservationist: Awarded to professionals distinguished for service in historic preservation. Nominees for this award would be those whose job it is to further the cause of Historic Preservation in Idaho through direct projects or education
F. Kirk Halford
Heritage Stewardship: Awarded to organizations or individuals that have shown dedication to historic preservation through the long-term maintenance and care of historic, architecturally significant, or culturally important sites and structures
Rock Creek Station and Stricker Homesite – Hansen
St. Michael’s Episcopal Cathedral - Boise
Onions
Onions: Examples of projects or programs insensitive to historic preservation can be awarded to individuals or corporations who demolish historically significant buildings or sites, or new construction that is insensitive or ignorant of the neighborhood’s history
Projects Which Fail to Seek and Secure Proper Preservation Permits – Boise
2021 Orchids AND Onions Archive
Since 1977, Preservation Idaho has hosted the annual Orchids & Onions Awards, a ceremony designed to celebrate those individuals and organizations that have made a positive contribution to historic preservation, and in turn, to bring awareness to those projects which have shown an insensitivity to historic preservation.
On June 26th, 2021 we celebrateD the 44th annual Orchids & Onions Preservation Awards
2021 awards presentation took place at:
The Idaho Black History Museum (in Julia Davis Park)
Saturday, June 26, 2021
12:30 to 3:30
Tours/Awards Ceremony/Reception
2021 awards recipients
Building Projects and Programs
❖ Excellence in Historic Preservation
Awarded to projects that have demonstrated outstanding adherence to the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards in preservation, restoration, renovation, or adaptive reuse (residential or commercial).
❖ Contribution to Historic Preservation
Awarded to projects that have been successful in the tasteful restoration, addition, or remodel of an existing building (residential or commercial).
❖ Preservation-Sensitive New Construction
Awarded to new construction that enhances a historic neighborhood or historical theme (residential or commercial).
❖ Cultural Heritage Preservation
Awarded to educational programs and projects that have made a positive impact toward the preservation of cultural heritage and open spaces, as well as the restoration and rehabilitation of historic landmarks and roadside architecture.
individuals and organizations
❖ Friend of Preservation
Awarded to non-professional individuals distinguished for service in historic preservation. This would include, but would not be limited to, those who volunteer for preservation organizations, historical societies or museums.
❖ Distinguished Preservationist
Awarded to professionals distinguished for service in historic preservation. Nominees for this award would be those whose job it is to further the cause of Historic Preservation in Idaho through direct projects or education.
❖ Heritage Stewardship
Awarded to organizations or individuals that have shown dedication to historic preservation through the long-term maintenance and care of historic, architecturally significant, or culturally important sites and structures.
❖ Scott Chandler Award for Excellence in Craftsmanship
Awarded to individuals worthy of acknowledgment for their body of work and contributions to their craft. This award is in memoriam to Scott Chandler, who embodied attention to detail and a commitment to quality and integrity in historic preservation.
onions
❖ Examples of projects or programs insensitive to historic preservation can be awarded to individuals or corporations who demolish historically significant buildings or sites, or new construction that is insensitive or ignorant of the neighborhood’s history.