This Landmark Civil War Era Home in Kansas City is My Pick of the Week

This home, located at 1032 W. 55th Street in Kansas City, is currently for sale and listed with Nancy Ward of Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Kansas City Homes (VIEW LISTING). I had the opportunity to view it in person today; I have always noticed this home and its Antebellum, Southern Plantation style of architecture so it was especially fun to be able to see inside. The brick construction, Greek Revival influence, columns, traditional white and green trim, double height windows, and verandas on every level embody the southern style. The Seth Ward Residence, as it is known, is on the historic registry, and, according to my favorite Kansas City historical site, Missouri Valley Special Collections, Kansas City Public Library, Kansas City, Missouri:

“The Old Ward Home was originally built in the 1850s with additions made in later years. Built by William Bent, the home was bought by Seth E. Ward in 1871, who lived there for many years. The home, located at 1032 West 55th Street, is a private residence, and according to the catalog card, not open to the public.”

Though the home had later additions, the original home was built prior to the Civil War (fought from 1861-1865), therefore it is accurate to label it Antebellum. I found the image below on the Missouri Valley Collections website; it does not state the year that the image was produced, but it does give a little bit of history to the original landowner of Sunset Hills. I could get lost on that website, and have! I hope you enjoy this little bit of Kansas City history as much as I do.

images: 1. via Kansas City Heartland MLS, 2. via Missouri Valley Special Collections, Kansas City Public Library, Kansas City, Missouri