History Cherokee Announces 2026 Historic Preservation Award Winners
History Cherokee honored outstanding preservation projects, community partners, and dedicated volunteers during its annual Historic Preservation Awards Gala on Saturday, August 22, at Timbers on Etowah.
The Historic Preservation Awards recognize the individuals, businesses, organizations, and communities whose work helps preserve and protect the historic places and stories that make Cherokee County unique.
This year's Historic Preservation Award recipients included:
- Howard-Banks House in Canton
- Dial-Ramsay House in Woodstock
- Latimer-Sholly House in Woodstock
- The Ball Ground House in Ball Ground
- Burger Bus in Ball Ground
- Cagle Farm in Holly Springs
- Hendrix House in Ball Ground
- 94 North Street in Canton
In addition to recognizing these preservation projects, History Cherokee honored the City of Canton as a Preservation Partner. The recognition celebrated the city's receipt of the Preservation Service Award from the Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation, recognizing its commitment to historic preservation.
The Historic Preservation Awards Gala is also an opportunity for History Cherokee to recognize the volunteers whose dedication helps further the organization's mission of preserving and sharing Cherokee County's history. Judy Bishop was named History Cherokee's Volunteer of the Year, while James “Skip” Spears received the Judson W. Roberts Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of his longstanding commitment and service.
“Our collective Cherokee County history helps us learn from our past, make the most of our future, and prepares us for the future,” said Rebecca Johnston, president of the History Cherokee Board of Directors, during the awards presentation. “We continue to strive to remember that this place matters. Without all of you, none of this would be possible.”
Following the awards presentation, guests continued the celebration with an after party on The Green, hosted by The Mill on Etowah. Entertainment was provided by Rian Davis and the Chairmen of Swing.
View pictures of the winners on our YouTube Channel.