Distinguished Award

From the Empire State Building in New York City to Louis Sullivan's Jewel Box Bank on Fourth and Broad, buildings help define the character of a place. For more than three decades, Carolyn Hewes Toft '58 has fought to preserve historically significant buildings in St. Louis.

Toft originally planned to pursue a career in music, but found herself fascinated by architectural preservation after living in a 15th-century German house. She earned a master's degree in urban studies and architectural history from Washington University.

In 1978, she became the executive director of the Landmarks Association of St. Louis, an organization dedicated to preserving and enhancing the city's architectural heritage. Thanks in no small part to Toft's work, St. Louis now has more than 120 landmarks on the National Historic Register. Without her efforts, many of these historic buildings would have disappeared.

With wit and passion, Toft has successfully fought to preserve the city's historic neighborhoods. She also spearheaded efforts to create an illustrated catalog of St. Louis landmarks and historic districts. The publication has been called an "indispensable reference." In 1989, the American Institute of Architects recognized her achievements by awarding her honorary membership.

For her efforts to preserve the historic buildings of St. Louis for future generations, Grinnell is pleased to honor Carolyn Hewes Toft '58.