2021 Award Recipient
Created in 1998 to honor the memory of David Evans, FAIA, a talented and generous preservation architect, the award provides financial assistance and recognition to groups or individuals seeking to preserve historic Michigan architecture.
Ralph and Jeanne Graham, co-founders of the award, guided its development until their passing. The Award was re-named in 2015 to honor their leadership and contribution. Today, the Award of $15,000 is granted annually by a jury based on the merits of the project. The application period opens early in the year of award, and closes at the end of that March.
For more information, contact Carl Roehling:
Criteria for Selection
Creativity
The project demonstrates creative solution(s) to a preservation problem.
Community
The final result will benefit the community within which it resides aesthetically, with increased visibility or as an educational influence.
Quality
The project reflects the values of David Evans, and Ralph and Jeanne Graham:
Project Requirements
Requirements
Application Requirements
It is the intent of the jury to make the submission as efficient and succinct as possible to save time for applicants. The quality of the submission is more important than the quantity of exhibits. To that end, applicants should submit their project in conformance with the following outline.
1. Cover Letter (1 page)
The letter should include; name of the project, name of the organization, confirmation of IRS status, name of contact person, contact information, and a paragraph summarizing how the project addresses the three criteria for the award.
2. Project Team (1 page)
Brief description and history of the organization. Project leaders from the organization. List of professionals and contractors involved in the project and their roles. Name of AIAM member involved and their role.
3. Project Description (2 pages)
Answer the following questions:
4. Project Exhibits (4 pages maximum)
Provide the graphic information that is most important to the case for the award. This may include photographs, renderings, plans or details that describe the project and its creativity, quality and benefits to the community.
APPLICATION PROCESS
Process
Organizations will submit a PDF application and project description by email to Carl Roehling, FAIA, MAF Evans Graham Preservation Award Committee Chair, cdroehling@gmail.com, beginning in February.
PRO BONO CONSULTATION
The $15,000 MAF grant will help cover the costs of the Historic Structures Report, the first step in the project’s restoration.
Built in 1876, the Pointe aux Barques Life-Saving Station was the first life-saving station opened on southern Lake Huron. Maritime history plays a significant role in the Thumb area of Michigan. Towns along the shore of Lake Huron were originally settled by people arriving on Great Lakes sailing ships, and those towns flourished due to the state’s lumber trade and salt production. Lighthouses and life-saving stations were essential, as they reduced the tremendous risks of water travel at the time. Much of Michigan, from Detroit to towns along the shores of Lake Michigan and Lake Huron, share this maritime heritage.
The project’s grantee, the Pointe aux Barques Lighthouse Society, plans to preserve the structure as a place to engage and educate the community about the region’s rich maritime history. The project also represents a significant milestone in preserving an important piece of Michigan’s architectural history.
