The Hartley Block, built in 1881, is slated for demolition. (Joan Justice)

UPDATE: The Hartley Block was recently demolished.

Dear Preservation 911,

Stockton, Mo., has been hit by a devastating tornado that ripped out most of the historic buildings downtown. Our building, the Hartley Block, built in 1881, was hit, too. However, the first floor is basically intact. It has been totally restored and brought up to code at great expense and with much tender loving care.

Engineers, builders, and our historical architect (who has a long list of restored properties on her resume), are ready to repair and put back in service the first floor of this building, which can be seen on our Web site.

However, city leaders have got it in their heads that since most of the businesses are gone on the city square, they want every building (including ours) torn down. All rebuilding will be done with a theme once one is determined. After attending three meetings during which nothing was accomplished except more confusion, I think this may take a year or more. This city of 1,500 has no zoning or codes and has never enforced anything they did pass. Now, all of a sudden, they are saying they are going to force my daughter to tear down her first floor, which survived the tornado intact.

We need some help right now to see that this doesn't happen. The rain has done more damage to the building, but it can be repaired. You can reach us by phone at (417) 276-7004.

Sincerely,

Joan Justice

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