In a world where modern construction often overshadows the past, Jason and Christa Butler founded Preservation Company out of a deep-seated love for old architecture. They're driven by a shared disdain for seeing valuable heritage go to waste. Their business is a blend of treasure hunting adventures and the sheer joy of breathing new life into forgotten relics. "We thrive on the thrill of discovery and the stories embedded in each piece,' says Jason. "And we love watching the treasures we find integrate into contemporary spaces."
He continues, "You never know what you're going to find...for instance, imagine my surprise when we stumbled across majestic cast iron columns from the original Union Station in Nashville while looking for other architectural pieces." These 24-foot-tall pillars had been removed in the 1980s during renovations and sat languishing in a demolition company's yard for decades, waiting to be rediscovered.
Their hunts often yield unexpected treasures beyond the obvious. In 2019, while reclaiming lumber, tin ceilings, and flooring from the historic Hale Brothers Furniture building in downtown Huntsville—now transformed into the 106 Jefferson Hotel—they uncovered wartime posters still adhered to a wall that once bordered an alley. This space had been enclosed by a later addition, preserving these artifacts like time capsules.
As you wander through Huntsville, you'll spot historic charm from Preservation Co. woven into the city's fabric. From the tin ceilings at Del Chuco to the cast iron columns outside the Corner office on the square—originally from downtown Kansas City—the revival is palpable. Places like Revivalist boast reclaimed wood floors and brick, while Stove House, Mid City, and even spots as far as California and Canada feature their inventory. These preserved pieces of history span the globe, sourcing from France, Germany, Belgium, Hungary, Turkey, India, Egypt, Morocco, Mexico, and across the United States.
One standout piece is a door recovered from a bank south of Chicago, now gracing the entrance of Blue Oaks BBQ right here in Huntsville. This sturdy portal, with its vintage charm, bridges the industrial Midwest to Southern hospitality, proving how architectural elements can transcend geography and time.
One of their rare finds was an exquisite door hailing from a small palace south of Egypt. Dating back to the early 1800s, this door boasts intricate carvings that reflect the opulence of a wealthy, prominent family. Its size and detail make it a standout, a testament to Egyptian craftsmanship that blended functionality with artistry. "We don't come across such exotic pieces often," says Jason. "But when we do, they reignite our passion for history."
Equally enchanting are the doors from a quaint chateau in France. Unlike many stripped-down salvages, these retain their original patina, promising to become statement pieces once restored. The elegant designs evoke the romance of French countryside estates, where every hinge and panel tells a story of elegance and endurance.
For the Butlers the search is as exhilarating as the revival. They cherish the travel, the haggling with seasoned salvagers, and the moment when a neglected artifact finds its second act. In an age of disposability, their work preserves the soul of the past, ensuring that these treasures continue to inspire and endure. Whether it's a colossal column or an ornate door, each piece carries forward the legacy of human ingenuity, ready for its next chapter.