Some people make a lasting difference not only through what they accomplish, but through their dedication to preserving stories, memories, and history that connect us to our past. Warren Schmidt is one of those people.

Regular readers of this blog might remember a post from a year ago where I shared that Lynn Degenhardt had received an award from Concordia Historical Institute. I have the honor today of writing to celebrate the fact that Warren received a similar award last night at this year’s awards banquet.

Each year, Concordia Historical Institute, the official department of archives and history of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod, grants awards. From their website:

The CHI Awards Program started in 1974. Each year the Concordia Historical Institute awards committee members evaluate recent American Lutheran historical publications, authors and contributors. The committee grants awards on behalf of CHI to individuals, congregations, agencies and boards. CHI recognizes the significant contributions to literature and research in the field of Lutheran archives and history in North America.

Here is his award:

If you’re having trouble reading it, it states:

2026 Special Service Award in recognition of significant service to the field of Lutheran archives and history in North America. Warren Schmidt for his research and writing on the Lutheran Heritage Center blog and for his inspiring Lutheran novels. Warren Schmidt is commended for his sustained contribution to Lutheran history in North America through his blog on the Missouri Synod Lutherans of Perry County, Missouri. Drawing upon church records, census documents, and family histories, his narratives connect individual lives with the wider story of Lutheran congregations, schools, and ministry across the country. His work demonstrates the importance of local history for understanding the church’s broader mission and offers an inviting model for congregational and family research. By bringing historical evidence into accessible public storytelling, Schmidt encourages intergenerational learning, responsible stewardship of historical records, and a deeper appreciation of the people whose faith and service have shaped Lutheran life in North America.

As a former director of the museum, I have a deep appreciation for the importance of Warren’s work. During my time there, I came to appreciate how essential it is to have people who are passionate about preserving and sharing our Lutheran heritage. Historical preservation is more than saving documents, photographs, and artifacts. It is about keeping stories alive, honoring the faith and dedication of those who came before us, and passing that legacy on to future generations. Warren’s dedication over the last ten years has done just that.

Here are a few pictures from the evening:

And a final one that I got from Sandi, showing the man in action!

Congratulations, Warren, on this well-deserved honor! Thank you for your dedication to preserving, interpreting, and sharing the history that connects us to our past and helps guide future generations.

Denise Hellwege, thankful former director