The Preservation Foundation

Ballinger Award

The Ballinger Award commemorates a restoration or renovation that best exemplifies the traditions of Palm Beach’s original houses and the architects who designed them. The Ballinger Award was first presented by the foundation in 1987 in honor of the late Robert I. Ballinger Jr., former chairman of the Palm Beach Landmarks Preservation Commission. Mr. Ballinger worked tirelessly for many years to instill pride in the island’s architectural heritage. The medal itself, struck by noted sculptor Edward Grove, bears the likeness of a bust of Mr. Ballinger that was sculpted by Mr. Ballinger’s wife, Didi Ballinger. The award is featured in December of each year at the foundation’s membership luncheon.

Polly Earl Award

The Polly Earl Award was founded in 2005 and carries with it a $10,000 gift. It is given annually to recognize a Palm Beach property owner for outstanding service to the cause of preservation, specifically through restoration of an existing landmarked property or property of historic significance that is not necessarily a large estate. Mrs. Earl was the foundation’s executive director for some 20 years. She died in 2005. The first award was given toward the restoration of a house on Seabreeze Avenue, in one of the original neighborhoods of Palm Beach that were important to Mrs. Earl.

Elizabeth L. and John H. Schuler Award

The Elizabeth L. and John H. Schuler Award was founded in 2005 by Mr. and Mrs. Schuler to recognize new architecture that is designed and built in keeping with the traditional styles of Palm Beach architecture. John Schuler served as chairman of the Town of Palm Beach Architectural Review Commission for many years and is the Treasurer of the Foundation’s executive committee of the board of trustees.