Owner shows off restoration of historic Spradling House

The Spradling House at 1304 Broadway made its debut late Friday afternoon as a made-over property that used to be in disrepair.

Once home to the grandfather of former Cape Girardeau mayor Al Spradling, the two-story, gold-brick building constructed about a century ago now is available for lease as a commercial space, said Rick Hetzel, owner of R. Hetzel Properties LLC.

The building is adjacent to the strip center containing Marco’s Pizza and Family Video.

Hetzel’s company acquired the Spradling House last summer and wrapped up its work on the property in February.

“Essentially, everything from the roof down has been replaced or remodeled,” he said.

The Spradling House is seen Friday.Glenn Landberg

In addition to a new electrical system and other infrastructure needs, the entire downstairs area was re-plastered and some of the oak hardwood flooring refinished.

A two-car garage was removed and replaced by a patio on the west side of the building that’s fenced with wrought iron and has new lighting.

“We tried to upgrade everything that was integral to the infrastructure ... and at the same time wanted to retain the historic charm of the building,” Hetzel said.

One key element the company was able to preserve are the arts and crafts-era exposed beams downstairs, along with interior moldings, a glazed brick fireplace and built-in bookcases to either side of the fireplace.

Because of the building’s location, it had to be rezoned as part of the Central Business District, meaning it no longer may be used for residential purposes.

Bill Slinkard makes his way around the Spradling House during an open house Friday.Glenn Landberg

Hetzel, responsible for converting the old Kage School building into a guest cottage, said he hopes the Spradling House becomes a focal point of the Broadway corridor, with possible use as office space or a restaurant.

Hetzel had planned to move his company inside the house, but decided not that much space was needed.

In previous years, the property served as a global foods store, a photography studio and a gift shop before it closed in the mid-2000s.

The Spradling House is seen Friday.Glenn Landberg

On the main floor, in addition to what once was the living room, is a front room and what likely was a dining room, with a small kitchen and bathroom to the rear.

Upstairs are three potential offices with another bathroom between. The wall color throughout is a light sage.

During Friday’s festivities at the property, members of the Cape Girardeau Historic Preservation Commission led a tour of the surrounding Historic Boulevard District.

ljones@smissourian.com

(573) 388-3652

Pertinent address:

1304 Broadway, Cape Girardeau, Mo.