Panel recognizes six Cape 'treasures'

Six of Cape Girardeau's old homes are the latest "original treasures," says the city's Historic Preservation Commission, which makes such designations three to four times a year.

The commission recently recognized houses at 326 N. Middle, built in 1893 and owned by Bob Polack; at 230 Bellevue, built in 1875 and owned by Bridget Oliveto; at 204 Bellevue, built in 1913 and owned by Jeff and Donna Maguire; at 233 Bellevue, built in 1920 and owned by Frank and Ruth Moreland; at 214 N. Lorimier, built in the 1850s or 1860s and owned by Dennis and Karla Stockard; and at 220 N. Lorimier, built in 1882 and owned by Dr. Charles and Martha McGinty.

Commission member Barbara Port said she and other members of the 11-member city board take the homeowner's word on the age of the house. In the case of the Stockard house, the date given was 1854, but other records indicate construction occurred in 1868.

The commission places a temporary sign outside each home, stating that it's "one of Cape's original treasures" and listing the approximate date it was built.

"We have been doing it about four years," said Port. "We have awarded 37 through the years."

The program recognizes homes that are over 50 years old and have been maintained or restored, Port said.

The commission erects the yard signs to call attention to the houses and to the efforts of building owners. "It is to tell the community there is something here worth saving," Port said.

"We have lost so many interesting buildings in Cape Girardeau because of the lack of interest," she said.

The commission doesn't require homes to be restored to their original state, but it won't recognize houses whose original architectural designs have been eliminated by new construction.

"Vinyl and aluminum siding we just can't deal with," Port said.

Donna Maguire said she and her husband are thrilled to have their brick house listed as an "original treasure."

"We just love these old houses, and we love the downtown area," she said.