Jefferson Landing State Historic Site facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Jefferson Landing State Historic Site |
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![]() The Lohman Building
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Location | Jefferson City, Cole County, Missouri, United States |
Area | 1.27 acres (0.51 ha) |
Elevation | 535 ft (163 m) |
Established | 1976 |
Governing body | Missouri Department of Natural Resources |
Website | Jefferson Landing State Historic Site |
The Jefferson Landing State Historic Site is a special place in Jefferson City, Missouri. It's a collection of old buildings that show what life was like long ago. The Missouri Department of Natural Resources takes care of this historic area.
The site includes three important buildings: the Christopher Maus House, the Union Hotel, and the Lohman's Landing Building. The Lohman's Landing Building is so important that it was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1969.
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What is Jefferson Landing?
This historic site helps us learn about the past. It shows how people lived and worked in Jefferson City during the 1800s. You can explore these old buildings and imagine what they were like.
The Lohman Building's Story
The Lohman Building is made of stone. It was built in 1839 by a man named James Crump. This building was very busy! It was used as a grocery store, a place to store goods, and even a hotel. It also had a telegraph office, which was like an early way to send messages.
People called it "the landing" because it was right by the river. It became a popular spot where important people met. These included "lawmakers" (people who create laws) and "commercial operators" (people who ran businesses). Charles Lohman, who was Crump's business partner, later bought the building. That's how it got its name, Lohman's Landing.
The Maus Family and the Union Hotel
In 1855, another important building was constructed. Charles Maus built a hotel right across the street from the Lohman Building. His brother, Christopher Maus, built a small brick home nearby.
The hotel changed its name a few times. It was called the Missouri Hotel and then the Veranda Hotel. After the American Civil War, it became known as the Union Hotel. The Civil War was a big conflict in American history.
Saving History: Restoration Efforts
Over time, the Lohman and Union Hotel buildings were used for different things. They stored items, provided housing, and even had a shoe factory. In 1976, the state of Missouri bought these buildings.
They were carefully restored to look like they did in the past. This restoration was part of a big celebration for the nation's 200th birthday. Now, these buildings help us understand Missouri's history.
What Can You Do There?
Jefferson Landing State Historic Site offers fun and educational activities. It's a great place to visit and learn.
Explore the Lohman Building
Inside the Lohman Building, you can see exhibits. These displays show what a general store and warehouse looked like in the 1850s. You can imagine buying goods or seeing items being stored for trade.
Visit the Elizabeth Rozier Gallery
The Union Hotel building now has the Elizabeth Rozier Gallery. This gallery features exhibits about Missouri's history, art, and culture. It's a wonderful place to learn more about the state.
Catch a Train at the Amtrak Station
The ground floor of the old Union Hotel building is still busy today. It houses Jefferson City's Amtrak train station. So, you can even catch a train from a historic spot!