The Reynolds House

We usually think of history in terms of stories, dates and people. We don't ordinarily think of history in terms of supply and demand.

The Reynolds House is a 150-year-old house in Cape Girardeau that is falling apart. The Historical Association of Greater Cape Girardeau owns the building, which was restored in 1981, but the historical association hasn't been able to keep up with maintenance.

Soon after articles in the Southeast Missourian described how the building was in serious trouble, concerned residents started scurrying.

A new task force was formed led by real estate broker Tom Meyer to look at ways of preserving the building. A St. Louis bank that specialized in helping organizations find tax credits for historical preservation called to offer assistance. Possible descendants of James Reynolds, for whom the house is named, came forward showing interest in helping restore the building.

Renovations could cost as much as $200,000. Tax credits and perhaps government grants might be used to bring the Reynolds House back. Ultimately, however, the house will only be saved by concerned individuals and groups willing to get the job done. Will there be enough demand to save the historical property? Only time will tell.