2026 Greeley Historic Preservation Awards Announced
GREELEY, Colo. — The Greeley Historic Preservation Commission honored local preservation leaders during the recent Historic Preservation Month Celebration. The event took place at the Greeley Creative Arts Center, 702 13th Street, on May 21. The annual awards recognize people and groups whose work helped to protect and restore Greeley’s historic places.
“Historic preservation reflects what a community chooses to value,” said Betsy Kellums, historic preservation office planner. “In Greeley, it protects places that define our character, strengthens neighborhood pride and connects residents across generations. These awards highlight the individuals and groups helping to safeguard that legacy.”
Award Winners
Individual Category: Gerald DeLue
Gerald DeLue was recognized for the thoughtful restoration of 1014 16th St. He replaced damaged wood siding to match the home’s original profile. His work preserved the appearance of a prominent house in a historic neighborhood. By choosing a sensitive treatment instead of a cheaper alternative, DeLue helped protect the character of both the property and the surrounding area.
Individual Category: Roy Wardell
Roy Wardell received an award for his support of the Macy Allnutt project. His substantial donation helped make the purchase and restoration of the building possible. He also played an active role in moving the project forward. Wardell toured the property, promoted the vision and helped build support for its future reuse. His commitment to historic preservation is helping create a lasting legacy in Greeley and Weld County.
Organization Category: Greeley Creative District
The Greeley Creative District received an award for its work to transform the historic Macy Allnutt building into its future home. The project reflects a strong vision for adaptive reuse in the community. It combines a commitment to the arts with preservation of a historic property. The organization is creating a meaningful future for the building that supports both preservation and the arts.
Contractor/design professional category: Sam Jantz of Choice Builders
Sam Jantz of Choice Builders received an award for his work restoring Greeley’s historic buildings. Jantz is part of a family-owned, multigenerational construction company. He has continued a tradition of custom carpentry and thoughtful construction. His efforts have helped restore and improve notable historic properties across Greeley.
His work includes the Masonic Events Center, Kress Cinema, Ringle-Gurtner House and Bessie Smith House. Jantz's craftsmanship has helped preserve the character of some of Greeley’s most recognizable historic buildings.
Legacy Keepers Award: Greeley Museums Staff and Museum Advisory Board
This year’s event included a special recognition. The City of Greeley Museums staff and the Museum Advisory Board received the Legacy Keepers Award. The Historic Preservation Office presented this new award to honor their dedication to preserving and sharing the history of Greeley and Weld County. The award also recognizes their strong partnership with the Historic Preservation Office.
The museums staff and advisory board help oversee the City’s four historic sites. These sites include the White-Plumb Farm Learning Center, Greeley History Museum, Centennial Village Museum and the Meeker Home.
All four sites are listed on the Greeley Historic Register. Three are also listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Museum employees and advisory board members are dedicated stewards of these important places. They help protect the sites and share the stories that shape local and regional history.
For more information, contact Betsy Kellums at hpo@greeleygov.com or 970-350-9222.
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