One Last Farewell

This is the last time I'll probably blog about this... The wonderful Victorian Duplex at 2116 -2118 Minnie is gone. This structure achieved landmark status in 1989.

Built in 1888 by L.A. Copley it was Chateauesque in design with B.H. Brooks as the architect.

Original occupants were: 2116, Henry Albers, wholesale flour business. 2118, LeGrand A. Copley, the builder, who previously lived at 409 Wabash.

What the Missouri State Landmark survey said: "This duplex is a rare example of the Chateauesque style in Kansas City, Missouri. Main or south elevation features entry porches, east and west bays, featuring classically-inspired columns. Inconspicuous entrances, south elevation. Fenestration is double-hung, sash-type with multi-panes. Prominent terra-cotta lintels feature intricate, low-relief carving. Pedimented dormers feature arched fenestration with brick voussoirs. Other features include terra-cotta pinnacles with crockets; and terra-cotta false arches with basketweave brick design, low-relief carving and decorative keystones. Cornice line features carved brackets. Two=tier porch, north elevation, non-original."

The first image is a copy of a copy of the photo with the Missouri Landmark Survey taken in 1989. The second image is last Monday, 3/23, just before demolition. The last image is how Kansas City and a negligent owner treat historic properties.

Thank you to Kent Dicus who provided me with a copy of the Missouri State Landmark Survey.

A Grand Demise

High water marks aren't the only things we erase in KC.... more often it's whole buildings. The Grand Opera House (ironically on Walnut) is now being rubblelized. Built in 1881 it entertained audiences for 40 years.... it was closed in 1921, gutted, and reopened in 1926 as a parking garage.

That reconstruction rendered it basically unusable in any other way and made it ineligible for any National Register nominating. I would ask though why the facade could not have been saved.... it wouldn't have cost that much and you could still have your surface parking lot... which is what it is destined to be. Many thanks to Kent Dicus who sent me the picture of this wonderful building in its heyday.