Preservation Award Recipients
Each year, the Preservation Society of Marion County presents an annual Preservation Award to recognize individuals and organizations who demonstrate outstanding dedication to protecting our community’s historic resources.
Awards highlight two essential aspects of preservation:
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Restoration & Rehabilitation – honoring efforts to restore and bring new life to historic buildings.
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Ongoing Stewardship – recognizing the continued care and maintenance that keep historic structures strong and vibrant for future generations.
Recipients are presented with an engraved pewter julep cup, a lasting symbol of appreciation for their commitment to preserving Marion County’s heritage.
This page will grow each year as we continue to celebrate the people and organizations working to keep our shared history alive.
2026 Honorees
The Preservation Society of Marion County is proud to recognize Ken Bell as this year’s Preservation Award recipient.
Ken is being honored for his restoration and rehabilitation of the Poplar Corner Colored School/Bell Chapel Church, as well as his continued care and stewardship of the historic structure.
Established in 1894 as a school, the building later became Bell Chapel Church. In 2003, Ken dismantled the building at its original Poplar Corner location and moved and rebuilt it in Belltown, a community established in 1866 by formerly enslaved residents Tom (Eliza) Bell, Jerry Bell, and Levi Carter.
2025 Honorees
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Joe and Carol Mattingly – for their exemplary dedication to preservation.
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City of Bradfordsville – for their leadership in protecting and maintaining community landmarks.
