Perry County mourns death of historian, preservation leader Bill Hart

FOX23 News at 9 p.m.

PERRY COUNTY, Mo., (KBSI) — Perry County officials are mourning the death of Bill Hart, director of the Perry County Historical Society, remembering him as a devoted steward of local and state history.

Hart dedicated his life to preserving and sharing the history of Perry County and Missouri. His family roots in the county dated back to the earliest days of settlement in southeast Missouri, and officials said his passion for history was both professional and deeply personal.

Hart spent years as a leader in historic preservation, including 13 years with the Missouri Alliance for Historic Preservation, where he served as executive director. He later returned to Perry County to serve as director of the Perry County Historical Society, working to collect, protect and share the community’s stories.

County officials also recognized Hart’s role as the narrator of the documentary on the construction of the Perry County Joint Justice Center, as well as the county’s earlier courthouses and jails. Hart worked closely with county staff to gather photographs and historical details to ensure the projects were documented accurately and respectfully.

Hart is remembered as an author, historian and scholar whose legacy of stewardship and scholarship will continue to guide those committed to preserving Perry County’s history. County leaders extended their condolences to his family and friends, noting that his contributions will ensure future generations remember where the community came from.