What a Beaut’: Craftsman Bungalow
Since 1998, the city’s Most Notable Property (MNP) Program has been highlighting and celebrating the historical significance of properties in Columbia, Missouri. The Program is managed by the city’s Historic Preservation Commission. In order to be considered for MNP recognition, a residential or commercial property must be at least 50 years old, within the city limits, and possess historical or architectural significance unique to Columbia. To make a nomination or find more information about the MNP Program visit https://www.comopreservation.org/most-notable-property-program. Applications are due by the end of the year.
7 Edgewood Avenue; Photo taken by Chris Creasy 9/26/23
Built in 1926 this property was recognized as a Most Notable Property in 2006. As described at the time by local Historic Preservation Consultant, Deb Sheals, in the Most Notable Property archives:
“This modest house on a tiny lot in Westwood provides a nicely intact example of a 1920s bungalow with Craftsman styling.
The house was probably built for Harold and Buelah Parrish, who moved into it between 1926 and 1932. It is said to have remained in their family into the mid-1980s. The house was built after most of the Westwood addition had been developed, and land was at such a premium that it was wedged onto a lot between two existing houses. The lot for this house was carved out of the backyard of a house that faces Broadway, resulting in a nearly square lot that is almost completely covered by the house. The back property line is only a few feet from the back wall of the house.
Architecturally, this house can be categorized as a Craftsman bungalow, which at the time was one of the most popular house types in Columbia, especially for relatively modest houses. The Craftsman style dominated residential architecture in Columbia from the late 1910s into the 1930s. Local examples of the style range from very large two story houses to modest one story bungalows such as this house. The term bungalow generally refers to the form of the house more than its architectural style. Bungalows are by definition one to one and one-half stories tall, with front porches and an emphasis on natural building materials.
In the early 21st century, the house benefitted from the attention of owners that appreciated its historic character. Recent projects have included front porch repair, as well as restoration of interior features such as millwork and the original fireplace.
Street addresses changed over the years; historic Sanborn maps and city directories show that the address of this house was 107 in 1932.”
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. The preservation of historic places and spaces is necessary for Columbia’s residents, students, and visitors to achieve a sense of place and also for our city’s continued economic success.
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Sources
Columbia’s Historic Preservation Commission. “Most Notable Properties-What Does It Mean To Be A Most Notable Property?” City of Columbia Community Development, Columbia, MO.
"Most Notable Properties Database." Prepared for Columbia, Missouri’s Historic Preservation Commission, by Historic Preservation Consultant Deb Sheals, https://www.como.gov/boards/historic-preservation-commission/most-notable-properties-program/. Accessed September 26, 2023.
