Final submissions are being sent in for endangered buildings in Cape Girardeau
CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. (KBSI) — The City of Cape Girardeau is approaching the final day for submissions to its Endangered Buildings List, an initiative aimed at preserving historically significant structures at risk of deterioration.
For the past decade, the city’s Historic Preservation Commission has compiled this list to raise awareness about Cape Girardeau’s aging architecture, which plays a crucial role in the city’s identity and tourism appeal.
“A lot of Cape’s identity is wrapped up in its historic districts,” said Ryan Lane, chairperson of the Historic Preservation Commission. “Starting as a riverfront commerce town, really a trading post at the very start, and then eventually growing into what we see today.”
Lane talked about how the buildings on the list vary in scale, from large industrial structures to smaller homes, such as the property at 831 North Street. Many historic buildings face the challenge of high rehabilitation costs, making demolition a more economical choice for some property owners.
“We’d like to find the right people with the emotional connection to the buildings to spend the money, resources, and time to rehabilitate and save a building versus just tear down and start over,” Lane said.
To encourage preservation, the commission is working with state officials, to improve access to grants, tax rebates, and other financial incentives for those willing to restore historic buildings.
Cape Girardeau’s preservation efforts include a yard sign program recognizing properties that maintain their architectural integrity. Among the city’s most cherished landmarks is the Indie House at 605 Broadway, home to the business El Kolibri at the Indie House.
Karla Cornelius, the shop’s owner, said the building’s history and character were a major draw.
“I just love anything historical,” said Cornelius, who is originally from Mexico. “This reminds me so much of my country and the European influence.”
Built in the late 1800s, the building initially served as a residence before becoming a hospital in the early 1900s.
Brenda Nixon, the store’s manager, highlighted the craftsmanship of the structure, noting that its intricate woodwork and original hardwood floors make it a rare gem.
“They don’t build houses like this anymore,” Nixon said.
Cornelius hopes that preserving and revitalizing historic downtown Cape Girardeau will further the city’s appeal, particularly for students and visitors.
The deadline to nominate a building for the Endangered Buildings List is March 8. The Historic Preservation Commission will review submissions on March 20, with the final list is set to be adopted on April 17.
For more information about the Historic Preservation Commission:
