History lesson

The features of this older home are timeless.

By Tammy Raddle ~ Southeast Missourian

One of the things I like about older homes is their history. An older home is not just a home, but a reminder of how things were at a certain point in history.

The home at 931 N. Cape Rock Drive is a good example of that. This is a classic white frame home with aluminum siding. It's a wonderful three-bedroom, 1.5 bathroom house set among stately trees in a quiet neighborhood. It's also a reminder of the way things were 50 years ago when it was likely constructed.

Its location on North Cape Rock Drive is now in the midst of Cape's residential growth, but at one time it was probably considered to be on the outskirts of town. Its separate two-car garage was likely a somewhat extravagant splurge in a time when most families felt fortunate to have one automobile.

But some things are timeless, and many features of this home fit that description. For instance, it has its original hardwood floors, all in excellent condition. This is not inlay. It is the real thing, the fruit of real labor. The built-in telephone stand at the foot of the stairs is a reminder of the time when the telephone was a fairly new convenience. The arched entryways that act as transitions between rooms is a romantic reminder that people at one time liked boundaries in their homes, and likely in their lives.

This home also has some marvelous updates which keep it as current as the most recently built house in Cape. Its kitchen, for instance, has been remodeled with beautiful cherry cabinetry and granite-look countertops in earthy charcoal colors. Yet the double cottage-style windows over the sink connect the house to its romantic past. The kitchen also has a modern jet-black smooth-top oven and range with a built-in microwave above. The door to the patio includes a beautiful work in stained glass, and the informal dining area has a wealth of lovely windows that keep it light and cheery.

The formal dining room also has hardwood floors and a handsome antique brass and crystal chandelier. It also has two large windows for plenty of natural light.

The formal living room has a total of six large windows, three on each side. A beautifully classic gas log fireplace has striking black tile facing and hearth, and a warm oak mantle. Burgundy walls with white trim give the room a cozy and warm touch. Crème plush carpeting gives the room a definite touch of luxury.

Between the living room and kitchen is a half bath with a classic white pedestal sink and charming louvered shutters on the window.

Up the solid oak staircase are the home's three bedrooms. The master bedroom features hardwood floors and six windows, which reflect light nicely off the soft beige walls. An Old World-style chandelier offers a handsome focal point.

Another bedroom has two windows for natural light, and a lead crystal lighting fixture that sends prisms of light dancing around the room. An upstairs bath is centrally located to all of the bedrooms, and also has handsome cherry cabinetry, a white tiled tub/shower area, and classic white privacy shutters over its window.

An area currently used as an office could also be used for another bedroom. It has two large casement windows on each end and four casement windows on the wall between, offering a pleasant view to the back yard. A window seat offers a charming spot for quiet reading or just enjoying the view outdoors.

This home also has a basement with a walk-up to the back yard. Though the basement is not currently finished, a little innovation could turn it into space suited to more than just storage.

This homey link between past and future is currently listed at $183,900, and is available for viewing through Re/Max Achievers, 335-8565.

traddle@semissourian.com