Sauget, Illinois
June 12th, 2021

Larry Giles, nationally renowned preservationist and President of the National Building Arts Center, died today of complications from cancer treatment. Larry started work on the Center in 1982 in response to Eero Saarinen’s proposal for a museum of American architecture on the Saint Louis riverfront. In 2002, Larry donated the inventory from his architectural salvage business to the newly incorporated organization and later oversaw the move to its current location in Sauget, Illinois. Under Larry’s leadership, the Center has become the world’s largest repository of several categories of building-related materials, from architectural terra cotta to cast iron storefronts, and a destination for researchers worldwide. The organization remains committed to Larry’s vision, and its staff and volunteers are already working to realize the next phase of the plans that Larry’s tireless work put in motion. The Center is planning a memorial for Larry and will announce plans shortly.

July 7th, 2021

Larry Giles leaves behind a rich legacy of preserved artifacts, enriched lives, and an organization dedicated to continuing his mission. On August 7th, 2021, join his family and friends at the museum he built to celebrate that legacy and that mission.

Site tours and a reception begin at 4:00 PM, with the main program starting at 5:00 PM.

Reservations are required; please see the Eventbrite page.