New Haven Preservation Society in New Haven, Missouri
The New Haven Preservation Society, Inc. was incorporated in 1989 for the primary purpose of saving historically significant buildings, documents and artifacts relating to the history of the New Haven, Missouri community.
The Preservation Society is located in the Old Grade School Building, located at 810 Maupin Avenue in New Haven. The building, which was erected in 1883, was purchased by the society on June 30, 1989. has undergone extensive renovation by the Preservation Society. Meeting rooms are available for community use and private rentals. Two museums, an archive and research room are also housed in the building. The archive contains a large collection of historic documents and memorabilia. The museums are popular with visitors to New Haven, school groups, scouts, civic organizations and individuals who are interested in local history. Monthly meetings of the New Haven Preservation Society are held in the building.
The organization is supported by membership dues and private donations. Most members reside in the New Haven area, with some supporting members living outside the area.
Current projects include the restoration of the 130 year old Anna Bell Chapel, and ongoing upgrades to the Old School. In addition to sponsoring several community events, such as a popular Candlelight Christmas House Tour, members also volunteer and assist other organizations involved in community activities.
Projects and Events
Anna Bell Chapel Project
The historic AME chapel is a remnant of African American culture. In 1992 it was placed on the National Register of Historic Places. It is currently in the process of being restored.
Save Our School
The steeple is believed to have been removed from the school during the 1930s. It was restored more than 75 years later by the New Haven Preservation Society.
Recent News
Anna Bell Chapel Renovations
With support from Eli Lily, in February 2025, the National Trust for Historic Preservation announced that Anna Bell Chapel was selected as one of 30 historically Black Churches across the United States selected to receive a grant for $200,000 from the African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund new initiative, Preserving Black Churches (PBC) program.
There’ve been a lot of changes taking place at the little white church on the hill. Work started in Fall of 2025.
- Lead Remediation was completed.
- Windows were repaired, and a few new windowpanes replaced with “wavy type” glass.
- Repairs of old boards were either replaced or repaired.
- The old original plaster was removed and will later be replaced.
Chapel On Christmas House Tour
Anna Bell Chapel will be on the annual house tour again this year! While it will be a drive-thru venue due to ongoing construction, it will have a Christmas tree, and we’ll be handing out hot chocolate and cookies again. The view of the Missouri River is beautiful and tends to create a very serene feeling.
Visit Our Museums
The “Springgate” and “The Journey Begins” museums provide a glimpse into New Haven’s past. The museums feature dozens of exhibits that include the early Indians, the steamboat era, the Civil War, New Haven’s Front Street, and much more.
The museums are open to the public by appointment.
Admission is free. Donations are accepted.
Call 573-237-2405 to arrange a tour.
Meeting and Event Space for Rent
