Meet The Jo(h)ns: Hands-On Preservation in Action

At Preserve Omaha, we’re passionate about helping people care for their historic homes — and no one embodies that mission quite like John Brennan and Jon Krainak, aka The Jo(h)ns. From teaching restoration techniques to lending practical advice, they dedicate their time and expertise to keeping Omaha’s architectural heritage alive. When they can’t be there in person, they connect homeowners with trusted professionals and resources to make preservation manageable.

Learning by Doing

The Jo(h)ns have led many This Old Castle presentations at the Josyln Castle, teaching Concreted Fundamentals, Decorative Plaster Molds and Casts, Tile Work, Extending Old Doors, Hanging Drywall and more.  Attendees got to see live demonstrations as well as being able to get their hands dirty.  Their work has been widely shared across social media, inspiring both homeowners and preservation enthusiasts alike.

Restoring Spaces, Teaching Skills

At the Creighton Phi Chi Medical Fraternity House, The Jo(h)ns guided residents through restoring a sunroom damaged by water and age. Residents learned plaster repair, wood restoration, and basic structural fixes, while the space itself was revitalized to provide comfort and function for generations to come.

Preserve Omaha exists to help people care for their homes and preserve our shared heritage. Whether through hands-on work, advice, or connecting homeowners to the right professionals, The Jo(h)ns demonstrate that preservation is both possible and rewarding.

And of course, thanks to all the participants and volunteers who’ve pitched in along the way — you’ve made a real difference!