HUNZE HOME TO BE CONSIDERED AS LOCAL LANDMARK

Cape Girardeau's Historic Preservation Commission may recommend the Hunze Home at 312 Bellevue for local landmark status.

The issue will be discussed when the commission meets at 7 p.m. Wednesday at City Hall.

The home is situated in an area that was referred to as Lorimier Hill during the Civil War. It was built in 1892 by Capt. Henry Hunze, a Civil War veteran, and was patterned after a German castle.

The area of Cape Girardeau became known as Silk Stocking Row during the 1890-1910 period because of the size and elegance of the homes.

Preservation enthusiasts said the uniqueness of the home, the use of paired gables of both Gothic and Queen Anne design, and the steep nature of its roof with dormer and bay windows warrants its recognition as a local landmark.

Restoration of the home began in 1985. The house is owned by Mr. and Mrs. Wilfred Hoelcher, who operate it as the Bellevue Bed and Breakfast.