You Find More Things When You're Not Looking

 I was photographing an up-scale listing for a local agent when the homeowner suggested I check out "The oldest occupied home in Jackson County."   Down a private road with no markings I dead-ended at the Luther Mason Home.   Built in 1838 and renovated, at least twice in 1976 and 1995, the home is in impressive condition.   Luther Mason was a prosperous cattle rancher and county judge.  When it was built the Mason Family planted virtually every variety of tree and shrub available in Missouri at the time and thus the property was called "Variety Grove."  The home was also a stop on the Underground Railway.  Amazing what you find when you aren't looking.  178 years young.