TOPEKA, Kan. — The Kansas Preservation Alliance recognized two examples of historic preservation here in Kansas.

What was once known as the European Hotel in Downtown Hutchinson — built in 1888 — is now known as the European apartments above Bookends Bookstore at 123 N. Main.

The building had many different names over the years and remained a hotel through the 1940s with a consistent turnover of business on the bottom floor.

Wes and Gwen Bartlett’s dream of owning a bookstore became a reality in 2011 when they purchased the building. With the bookstore becoming a big success in the lower commercial space, they decided to turn their attention to the boarded up, unused upper floors. The building now has three rental apartments and the owner’s residence, where the Bartlett’s moved.

State and Federal historic preservation tax credits were used to fund the rehabilitation.

They were given the Merit Award for Excellence in rehabilitation by the Preservation Alliance during an event Friday.