Maplewood (Columbia, Missouri) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Maplewood
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Location | Nifong Blvd. and Ponderosa Dr., Columbia, Missouri |
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Area | 12 acres (4.9 ha) |
Built | 1877 |
Built by | Lenoir, Slater Ensor |
NRHP reference No. | 79001348 |
Added to NRHP | April 13, 1979 |
Maplewood is a beautiful old house located in Columbia, Missouri. It was built a long time ago, in 1877, by Slater Ensor Lenoir and his wife Margaret Bradford Lenoir. This special house is a great example of Italianate style, and it has an interesting history.
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Discovering Maplewood's History
Maplewood is a historic house, which means it's an important building from the past. It was built in 1877, making it over 140 years old! The Lenoir family designed it as a large, two-story home made of brick.
What is Italianate Style?
The Italianate style was popular in the United States during the mid-1800s. Houses built in this style often look like Italian villas. They usually have low-pitched roofs, wide overhanging eaves, and tall, narrow windows. Maplewood shows many of these classic Italianate features.
A Place on the National Register
In 1979, Maplewood was added to the National Register of Historic Places. This is a special list kept by the United States government. When a building is on this list, it means it's important to the history of the country, state, or local area. It helps protect these places for future generations to enjoy.
Maplewood's Park Home
In 1970, the City of Columbia bought the Maplewood house and about 60 acres of land around it. This land was turned into a public space called the Frank G. Nifong Memorial Park. So, Maplewood became a part of a big, beautiful park!
Today, the house is looked after by two groups working together. The Boone County Historical Society and the City of Columbia Parks and Recreation both help manage Maplewood. They make sure the house is preserved and that people can visit it.
Fun Things to Do at Maplewood
Maplewood and the surrounding park are great places to visit. There are fun activities for families and friends throughout the year.
- Heritage Festival: Every September, the park hosts an annual Heritage Festival. This event celebrates the history and culture of the area. You can often see crafts, demonstrations, and learn about life in the past.
- Maplewood Barn Theatre: All year round, the Maplewood Barn Theatre puts on plays and performances. It's a unique place to watch a show in a historic setting.