Nominations for the 2026 Michael C. Duda Preservation Awards are in full swing! The Award pays tribute to the legacy of architect and former THF board member Michael Duda by recognizing outstanding contributions to the preservation of Texas architecture with monetary awards up to $100,000. The funds must be used towards completion of the project, and for many non-profits doing this work, it can transform a hopeful idea into tangible success.
In 2024, the inaugural year of the Duda Preservation Awards, the Friends of the Wheelock School House won the top prize for their efforts to restore the 1908 school. Their award was used for the restoration of the building's exterior, including repair and replacement of damaged wood siding, repainting of the siding, and restoration of the front and rear porches. Friends Vice-President Rena Frank said that the 2024 award “validated years of community effort and affirmed that the history we are working to preserve matters – not only to us, but to the greater story of Texas.”
Here are a few comments about the schoolhouse that were shared with us, each emphasizing its importance to the community:
“It’s because of the stories and the love my mom had for this building that I am involved with the Friends of the Wheelock School House. I am not alone. This building is near and dear to many in the Wheelock community and continues to be a symbol for what our community stands for.” – Jerry Deal
“For many years the schoolhouse served the community as a meeting place for an array of events and activities. I remember attending many of these events. My parents, aunts, uncles, and cousins attended school at the Wheelock school, so my affection for this historic building runs deep with memories both experienced and handed down to me.” - Evelyn Milberger Francis
“The Wheelock School House holds so many memories for me and my family! I am blessed to have grown up in Wheelock and to be able to raise my own family here. I have done so many things in this building and was able to pass that on to my girls. My great, great grandmother went to school in this building, quilted in this building… it is a true blessing to our small community and one that I hope to show my future grandchildren one day.” - Courtney Marriott Kosloski
The Texas Historical Foundation is honored to be part of the story to preserve structures like the Wheelock School House. You can see more photos of the school on our Flickr page.
Nomination submissions for the 2026 Duda Preservation Awards close on August 8, 2025. Visit the Duda Awards page for details.
