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NewsMay 16, 2007

Two historic sites that made Missouri Alliance for Historic Preservation's Most Endangered list are in Southeast Missouri. The Union Pacific Train Depot and Stairs in Poplar Bluff, Mo., and the Andrew Baker House in Desloge, Mo., made the 2007 list of Most Endangered Historic Places, which was released Tuesday...

This double-winged staircase unites two vital levels of Poplar Bluff's commerce: the two-story brick Union Pacific Train Depot at the bottom of the hill and Main Street at the top.
(Missouri Alliance for Historic Preservation)
This double-winged staircase unites two vital levels of Poplar Bluff's commerce: the two-story brick Union Pacific Train Depot at the bottom of the hill and Main Street at the top. (Missouri Alliance for Historic Preservation)

Two historic sites that made Missouri Alliance for Historic Preservation's Most Endangered list are in Southeast Missouri.

One of the earliest and largest log houses in this part of Missouri, the Andrew Baker house is two stories and has stone fireplaces. Andrew Baker was the area's first merchant, a slave-owner.
(Missouri Alliance for Historic Preservation)
One of the earliest and largest log houses in this part of Missouri, the Andrew Baker house is two stories and has stone fireplaces. Andrew Baker was the area's first merchant, a slave-owner. (Missouri Alliance for Historic Preservation)

The Union Pacific Train Depot and Stairs in Poplar Bluff, Mo., and the Andrew Baker House in Desloge, Mo., made the 2007 list of Most Endangered Historic Places, which was released Tuesday.

Missouri Preservation president Jeff Brambila said these historic landmarks are in danger of destruction due to neglect.

"We try to use this list to help get funding for threatened historic sites," Brambila said. "We select properties that have a chance of being saved once the public sees the plight these buildings are in."

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Brambila said that the Depot and the Baker House add to the character of the region, another factor in the selection process.

Steven Hoffman, director of the Historical Preservation Program at Southeast Missouri State University, said lists like Missouri Preservation's help make the public aware of the poor condition of some historic landmarks.

"Lists like this one are important because they call attention to neglected historic landmarks that have value to the community, before they fall by the wayside," Hoffman said. "Cape Girardeau had two rail depots, and now neither is standing. Connections to railroads allowed these communities to become what they are today in many cases."

Hoffman said federal and state tax credit programs can fund up to 45 percent of projected cost for renovation of historic sites, if concerned citizens take the time to apply for them.

For more details visit the website of Missouri Alliance for Historic Preservation

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