Cape Girardeau Historic Preservation Commission recognizes city's churches

Historically or architecturally significant properties that have been maintained or restored and are at least 50 years old can be designated original treasures by the Cape Girardeau Historic Preservation Commission.

Churches that exemplify the beauty and stability of the neighborhood, with equal representation regarding denominations, were recognized by the commission for this quarter. Those already listed on the Federal Register of Historic Places are not considered for Cape's Original Treasures.

Commission member Barbara Port realized it was important to recognize the churches now. "They are in such good condition when you consider their age. Since the Baptist Church is now owned by the university, it may at some point in time be changed, no longer meeting the criteria for Cape's Original Treasures."

Properties selected for Cape's Original Treasures are not required by the commission to be restored to their original state but will not be recognized if original architectural designs have been eliminated by new construction. Recognition by yard signs is customary.

Property owners' time and effort, and the resources expended to restore, maintain or enhance historic properties are all considerations of the committee.

To nominate a property, call Barbara Port at 335-1429.