What a Beaut’: Early Waterworks of Columbia
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.
800 W. Stadium, Photo taken by Chris Creasy 9/26/23
Built in 1939 this property was recognized as a Most Notable Property in 2009. As described at that time by local Historic Preservation Consultant, Deb Sheals, in the Most Notable Property archives:
“This small brick building is all that is left of one of the city's first sewer treatment plants. It was built by the Works Progress Administration ca. 1939 as part of the Flat Branch wastewater treatment facility. When new, the top floor of the building contained the sewer plant laboratory and office, and the lower level housed two mechanical pumps. The water treatment tanks were spread across the valley to the west of this building. The plant originally covered the entire level area located between Stadium Road to the MKT fitness trail.
With completion of the current city wastewater treatment plant near McBaine in 1982, the Flat Branch plant was decommissioned, and the area was redeveloped for public use. It was transformed into a trailhead as part of the initial development of the MKT nature and fitness trail. Late in the 1980s, work began to further develop the area around the building into a memorial to Dr. Martin Luther King. The Martin Luther King Memorial was dedicated August 28, 1993, the 13th anniversary of Dr. King's famous ‘I Have a Dream’ speech.
The main level of the building now houses an Audubon Society museum, and the lower level contains a public restroom for visitors to the MKT trail and The Martin Luther King Memorial.”
800 W. Stadium, Photo taken by Chris Creasy 9/26/23
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.
