Glenn House serves as alternative to Parade of Lights

With Cape Girardeau's Parade of Lights canceled, downtown visitors didn't flock to the Glenn House like usual Sunday to see the historic home decked out for Christmas.

But with the frigid temperatures and misting rain, more people came than expected, said Polly Cotner, tour chairwoman.

About 15 people toured the downtown house Sunday, the first official day of the holiday tour season. Tours will continue from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays throughout December. A special candlelight tour will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. Dec. 13.

"With the weather, I think it's amazing this many people came out. But I guess this is a good thing to do on a rainy day when the parade is canceled," Cotner said.

Volunteers have decorated the house, completed in 1883, for the holidays. Christmas trees adorn nearly every room in the home, its interior restored to that of the late Victorian era.

FRED LYNCH ~ flynch@semissourian.comThe Glenn House is decorated for Christmas tours.

"It's different every year based on who does it. Every year we come in and say it's the best it's ever been," said Barbara Port, who was helping give tours of the upstairs rooms Sunday.

A committee of volunteers and board members began bedecking the house at the beginning of November.

With the floundering economy, fewer businesses participated in decorating the house this year, but nevertheless every room was filled with wreaths, trees, garland or angels. Knaup Floral, Arrangements by Joyce, Shivelbine Music, Friends of the Glenn House, Consultative Marketing Group, Tea by Two Sisters and The Plant Lady are sponsoring the holiday tour.

"I have lived here my whole life, and this is my first visit. It is very authentic and beautiful. Everyone is very knowledgeable," said Margaret Edmonds, who came with her family Sunday.

Many of the rooms have holiday themes: The patriotic River bedroom has a Christmas tree decorated with red, white and blue ornaments and American flags. The kitchen's tree features gingerbread men and candy canes. Garland wraps around the staircase and mantles, and poinsettias dot rooms.

The house, at 325 S. Spanish St., can be toured for $5 for adults and $2 for children. Special events include River Ridge Winery tastings, piano music by Dr. Dan Cotner on Saturday and Dec. 21, music by Jerry Ford and the Westminister Choir on Dec. 13, the Dr. Paul Thompson Ensemble and a visit by Santa and Mrs. Claus on Dec. 14 and the St. Andrew Mission Bells on Dec. 20. Call 335-8533 for more information.

lbavolek@semissourian.com

388-3627

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