Another KC Landmark gone. The original Russel Stover Candies Store on Linwood has lost its blue and stately facade in favor of a new Cricket location. It seems we can't keep any history any more in this town. (I added blue tint to the above photo so the front would be more realistic.)
This is criminal.
ReplyDeleteBut with a spineless Landmarks Commission, led by a bureaucrat (Brad Wolfe) that refuses to litigate against owners who allow such abominations, what do you expect.
Truly a sad ending to a one dignified city landmark and treasure.
Sportster
...fire the bastard
It's been my experience that commercial property changes faster and more dramatically over the years than any other type of building. "Up to date" is what it's about and it's nothing new. Sad, yes, but look through the 1940 tax assessor's photos and you'll see what I mean. It's kind of amazing that it survived up to this point,
ReplyDeleteHow much of the original tile did they keep? It's looked like garbage for so long and it looks nice now, but it would be nice if they salvaged the tile in case someone else decided to restore it later.
ReplyDeleteMy guess... and it's just that... is that they went right over everything on the front with the new material. The windows used to be flush but now are recessed.
ReplyDeleteWell, it's easy to criticize others, but did anyone here put any of their hard earned dollars into saving the building? At least the building is occupied and functional and wasn't torn down for a condo or QT. Good point on the old tile. Kinda reminds me of the Blues place at 39th and Main that was "upgraded" by new owners who had zero understanding of the charm and historic significance of that Blues venue. I agree that it is a shame to see these buildings go, and I was fond of this one, but hardly qualifies as a criminal act.
ReplyDeleteWhat a damn shame. I always liked this building. Yes, at least it hasn't been torn down, but definitely not as charming. Now I want chocolate....sigh...
ReplyDeleteMidtown really needed another criket store, insert sarcastic smirk here. I hate to date myself, but I remember getting easter candy at the Indigo Blue stovers. You are dead on in your remarks about not being able to keep any history in this town. Here is a pic I took about a year ago. The building was still in fair shape. http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_DJe3vpipo5g/SL0_Hb458QI/AAAAAAAABGg/nLSX-J_-jFs/s1600-h/new+stuff+024.jpg
ReplyDeleteYou're dead on Midtown. Russell Stover is still a multi-million dollar business headquartered here in KC... would it really have cost that much to maintain the original store???? You're pix shows it still had a lot of life left in its original form.
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