July 11 is deadline to submit photos for Cape Girardeau histori

July 11 is the deadline for Cape Girardeau residents wishing to preserve the city's history by submitting their photos for the book "Cape Girardeau Faces & Places."

More than 900 photos have been submitted so far and more than 1,000 are expected by the deadline.

The book, compiled by Carol Robert and presented by the Southeast Missourian, is a pictorial history of the city from the 1800s through the 1950s.

Since November, Robert has been searching for photos that tell the history of Cape Girardeau. She's visited residences and nursing homes looking for images that tell not only the city's history, but also the personal stories of residents.

"We're really looking for personal photos," said Robert. "We want family gatherings, church gatherings and photos of organizations. We want the personal photos that people haven't seen before, not just the ones in the history books."

One Cape resident that Robert found in her visits was Lucille Christoff, who lives at Saxony Village. So far, Christoff and her family have submitted more than five photos to Robert, and they are thinking of submitting more.

"This is where I was born and have lived all my life," said Christoff. "I feel that my family has contributed much to the area and I want it to be known. It's a matter of pride."

The book will only hold about 350 photos -- about one-third of the total number submitted -- but Robert said she hopes to include at least one photo from everyone who submitted one.

People wanting to submit their photos must do so before July 11. Submissions can be made by calling Robert at 335-6611, ext. 106 or emailing her at crobert@semissourian.com.

Photos can also be mailed to P.O. Box 699, Cape Girardeau, Mo., 63702-0699, or submissions can be made by visiting the Missourian at 301 Broadway. Photos will be scanned and returned immediately.

Any submissions should include as much information about the photo as possible, and all contributors will be credited.

"Faces & Places" can be ordered for $29.95 before Sept. 12 and $39.95 after that date.

msanders@semissourian.com

335-6611, extension 226