Alliance Preservation Awards
The Alliance Area Preservation Society's Preservation Award honors noteworthy preservation projects in the greater Alliance area. These awards are an opportunity for the Society to recognize the efforts of property owners and the often heroic work they perform in preserving the historic and architectural resources in our area. The awards also encourage historic preservation and acknowledge that good preservation can be found in the restoration of the most modest residence to the grandest mansion.
2017 Preservation Award Recipients:
1001 Overlook Drive
Built in 1949
The Lustron House was an innovative solution to the post-WWII housing crisis. Many thought the porcelain enamel clad wonder would be the General Motors of the housing industry. Production began in 1948, but by 1950 production problems and a corruption scandal brought it to a halt. The factory was closed and the equipment sold or scrapped. All in all, only about 2,680 of these unique homes were built. Sadly, it is estimated that only 1,500 of these unique homes survive today. The house was purchased from the estate of the original owners, Charles & Dorothy Henschen who were prominent members of the Alliance community. They had added an apartment to the back of the home for their three children.
The Cat Fancier’s Association and Museum
Built c. 1950
The Cat Fanciers’ Association restored this former bank to be their headquarters and opened it in 2011. They have fully embraced the unique architectural elements of this Mid-Century Modern style 16,000 sq. ft. building. The cherry paneled open main room with almost floor to ceiling windows is dominated by a glass, polished stainless steel, pink and emerald granite staircase. The exterior is clad in emerald granite with polished steel columns.
