Did you know anyone can nominate a place or space to the City of Columbia’s Most Notable Properties list? Learn all about this program at the 7 p.m. Oct. 24 meeting of CoMo Preservation in the Columbia Public Library, which is free and open to the public.

Starting in 1998, nearly 200 places have been named to the list. Claiming a spot on the List is an honor but does not restrict the owner’s use of the place or space. Buildings listed include places like the awesome Second Baptist Church and cozy bungalows and spaces such as the Columbia Cemetery. Eligibility is simple: the place or space must be more than 50 years old, within Columbia’s city limits, and have contributed to the history or architectural influences that identify Columbia.

On Oct. 24, Meg Ross and Melissa Hagan, who both live in historic homes and serve on the city’s Historic Preservation Commission will talk about the ups and downs of living in a historic home – including an encounter with a giant spider!

Meg Ross - 1925 bungalow

Meg's brick bungalow was once home to noted regional artist Fred Shane for more than 30 years while he taught at the University of Missouri. A close friend of Thomas Hart Benton, Shane's career at MU began in 1932 and lasted 40 years. Learn more here about Shane: https://missouriartists.org/person/morem221/

The home was added to the city’s Most Notable Properties list in 2020

Melissa Hagan - 114-year-old historic home

Melissa moved into her and her husband’s 114-year-old house in the Old Southwest in 2021, fulfilling a lifelong dream of hers.  

A 30-year resident of Columbia, Melissa has found historic homeownership joyful, often wondering how many little feet have run down the staircase or how many parties were hosted in her home. 

But it isn’t all daydreams, she says. She’s faced bees, bats, and a giant-sized spider in the basement. The house was placed on the Most Notable Properties list last year.

Yet Melissa says, “I still love my house and it’s worth it knowing I own a piece of the historic fabric of Columbia. I want to make sure it lasts for another 100 years.”

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 gives people a sense of place and boosts Columbia’s economy. You can get involved by signing up for our newsletter, attending an event, or donating monetarily.

Do you have ideas for future topics? Interested in writing blog post or sharing a photo? Did you notice an error? Email CoMoPreservation@gmail.com or leave a comment below.