Coeur d'Alene celebrates Historic Preservation Month with awards and community events

June 20, 2025 | Coeur d'Alene, Kootenai County, Idaho


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Coeur d'Alene celebrates Historic Preservation Month with awards and community events
In June 2025, the city of Coeur d'Alene celebrated Historic Preservation Month with a series of events aimed at honoring and preserving the community's rich history. The month kicked off with a proclamation at the May 6 city council meeting, where Kiki Miller highlighted the importance of historic preservation. Walter Burns, chairman of the Historic Preservation Commission, accepted the proclamation, marking the beginning of various activities in collaboration with the Museum of North Idaho and the Music Conservatory of Coeur d'Alene.

One of the standout events was a reception held at the Northern Pacific Railway Depot, where the Heart of History award was presented to Jane Clark, owner of Clark's Diamond Jewelry. This award recognized her efforts in preserving the historic storefront, interior, and clock of the downtown jewelry store, which has been in operation since 1907. The building itself dates back to 1905 and was originally occupied by the American Trust Company. The street clock, installed in 1924, has been meticulously maintained, allowing the store to retain its historical charm.

The celebration included a welcoming address by Cash Matheson, a member of the Coeur d'Alene Tribe, followed by a blessing and song performed by tribal member Jeffrey Seltow. Seltow emphasized the significance of preserving history and language, reinforcing the cultural ties to the land and community.

Additional events throughout the month featured a Mother's Day tea at the Hamilton House, cemetery tours that highlighted notable women, and outreach at the Fifth Street Farmer's Market to raise awareness about preservation efforts. Mayor Woody McKevers also introduced a new demolition review process during the state of the city address, encouraging property owners to salvage historic elements from their buildings.

The month concluded with the Garden District being officially recognized as a neighborhood listed on the National Registry of Historic Places, further solidifying Coeur d'Alene's commitment to preserving its historical heritage. For more information on the Historic Preservation Commission and its initiatives, residents are encouraged to visit the city of Coeur d'Alene's website.

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