Peak preservation

Darrell Walker works on preserving the masonry detail atop the second story of the old Independent Order of Odd Fellows building – last known as the Painted Pony General Store – on the northeast corner of Broadway and Market streets in La Cygne.

Walker and his wife, Veronica Walker have been working to restore the building, which they said was built in 1865. The couple says they don't really have a plan yet for the structure except to preserve it.

"We're trying to save it from being another gravel lot," Darrell Walker said. "The town's disappearing one building at a time."

The Walkers live in the Kansas City metro area but say they are committed to preserving La Cygne history. (Roger Sims/Linn County Journal)