Jane Randol Jackson

Jane Randol Jackson is the first woman to receive the Spirit of America awards, sponsored by the Southeast Missourian and recognizing an individual who best exemplifies the best ideals of this great nation. But that's not what makes her stand out on the list of distinguished recipients who have served our community, state and nation so well. Jackson was chosen for this year's award, presented during the Libertyfest celebration on the Fourth of July at Cape Girardeau Regional Airport, because of a lifetime of service and leadership.

Many area residents know Jackson as their high school French teacher. She taught for 34 years, including four years in Vienna. Her love of history led to her involvement in the bicentennial of the Lewis and Clark expedition. Thanks to her and other local historians, Cape Girardeau became a part of the formal celebration commemorating the stop the two explorers made here on their way to St. Louis. Jackson now serves on the national Lewis and Clark commission.

When the Cape Girardeau County Archive Center was established, it was Jackson's hard work and leadership that turned the center into a model of historical records that provide such a rich trove of information for genealogists and others interested in this area's history. And Jackson also was a co-founder and driving force in the effort to construct a recreation of the Red House, the home and business of Louis Lorimier, who established what became Cape Girardeau. The Red House serves as an interpretive center, adding yet another facet to the jewels of historic sites the city has to offer.

As with all recipients of the Spirit of America award, the organization responsible for the winner's nomination will receive a $1,000 donation from the Southeast Missourian. This year the Red House Interpretive Center will get the check.

Thank you, Jane Randol Jackson, for your longtime efforts to make this a better community and your inspiration to countless others who strive to maintain the highest standards of historical integrity.