19th Century Poor Farm

Located at 1601 Stoney Brook Place, this 19th century farmhouse was originally Boone County’s “poor farm” located on 160 acres. In those days, poor farms were a common way of providing public care for those in need. Indigent citizens, often elderly or mentally disabled, were given room and board in return for whatever labor they could contribute to the upkeep of the house and farm. Although the farm was located several miles away from Columbia when it was established in the 1850s, the house is now well within the city limits and the former farmland has been divided into modern subdivisions.

Image from Google Earth. Accessed 10 Apr. 2025. earth.google.com.

In 1898, the house and land were sold to J. B. Turner, remaining in private hands ever since. Kent Airy, who believes the house was built in 1864, posted on a Columbia Facebook group that the house used to sit farther from the road on a hill behind the barn. He moved it down to its current location in 1994, using rocks from the fireplace to build the bridge in front of the house. The house was completely remodeled, and the fireplace is now gas with a wooden chase.

The original un-remodeled house could be categorized as an I-house, a traditional vernacular architectural style that was extremely popular in Missouri from the 1830s to the 1930s. I-houses are defined as being two stories tall, one room deep and at least two rooms wide. This house was the 100th Most Notable Property to be recognized by the Columbia Historic Preservation Commission.

Sources

Deb Sheals, Most Notable Property Inventory Forms, compiled for the Columbia Historic Preservation Commission, 2010-2024.  

Posts on Facebook group “You Know You’re from Columbia when…”

CoMo Preservation is devoted to helping homeowners, landlords, and institutions prevent the destruction of historic architecture. Original period styles might be replicated but will forever lack the social history of authentic structures. Preserving historic places and spaces gives people a sense of place and boosts Columbia’s economy. You can get involved by volunteering, signing up for our mailing list, attending an event, becoming a member, or donating.