Brick c.1905 Missouri Home With English Basement Under $160K – The Schifferdecker Gardener’s House
$159,900
Introducing the Historic Schifferdecker Gardener’s House. Immerse yourself in this Missouri home, rich history with this exquisite full-brick home, gracefully situated on a corner lot in the charming Murphysburg neighborhood. Enclosed by original iron fencing and adorned by a magnificent pecan tree, this residence exudes timeless elegance.
Realtor Comments
Updates include a brand-new roof in 2025 and a boiler heating system replaced within the last five years. Newer interior paint on the main level. Inside, you’ll be captivated by graceful architectural details: arched doorways, hardwood floors, tall ceilings, crown moldings, solid brass hardware, and a charming pocket door connecting the entryway and living room with fireplace. A clawfoot iron bathtub adds vintage luxury, while the butler’s pantry-with its built-in hutch-sits just off the formal dining room, The second level and attic brim with potential, offering tremendous space and character for future expansion. Renovation plans by Hunter Millard are available, giving you a head start on making this treasure your own. This home is not only eligible for federal grants but it is also located near the future museums showcasing the Schifferdecker and Zelleken houses, making it a rare opportunity to own a piece of local history at the heart of Joplin’s cultural revival. Don’t miss the chance to claim a home where history, beauty, and potential meet.
- 3bed
- 1.5bath
- Circa 1905
419 S Jackson Ave, Joplin, MO 64801 $159,900
If interested in a property, please contact the realtor whose link is provided in the post below, or contact an agent of your own choosing. Independent verification of details and status is recommended.
Pros
- Affordability: Joplin offers a low cost of living, making it an attractive option for families and individuals looking for affordable housing.
- Community Spirit: The city has a friendly, welcoming atmosphere with numerous community events and activities that promote local engagement.
- Access to Nature: Joplin is close to parks, trails, and outdoor recreational areas, providing opportunities for hiking, biking, and exploring nature.
- Growing Economy: The local economy has been improving, with job opportunities in various sectors, including healthcare, retail, and manufacturing.
- Cultural Amenities: Joplin features museums, theaters, and art galleries, offering cultural enrichment for residents.
Cons
- Weather Variability: Joplin experiences hot summers and cold winters, along with severe weather, including tornadoes, which may be a concern for some residents.
- Limited Public Transportation: The public transit system is limited, making a personal vehicle necessary for commuting and errands.
- Fewer Entertainment Options: While there are local attractions, Joplin may have fewer dining and nightlife options compared to larger cities.
- Job Market Competition: While the economy is growing, some residents may find the job market competitive, particularly in specialized fields.
- Crime Rates: Certain areas of Joplin may experience higher crime rates, which could be a concern for potential residents.
Family History
The home known as the Schifferdecker-Gardener’s Cottage aka the John Johnson House, constructed by Charles Schifferdecker (the wealthiest Joplin citizen at that time), sits immediately west of the well-known Schifferdecker mansion at 422 South Sergeant Avenue. It served as the Schifferdecker caretaker’s and/or gardener’s house. Ongoing research and restoration efforts suggest that the building may have once served as an office for Schifferdecker’s business ventures.
Johnson
The first known occupants of this residence were John Richard Johnson (1882–1946) and his wife, Louisa K. Martens Johnson (1884–1985). John, originally from Sweden, immigrated to Girard, Kansas, as a child, later relocating to Joplin at the age of 21. He began working as a gardener for Charles Schifferdecker and eventually took on the management of Schifferdecker’s expansive estate holdings.
In 1903, John married Louisa, who was the niece of Mrs. Schifferdecker. Following the deaths of Charles and Wilhelmina Schifferdecker in 1915, John inherited a portion of the family estate. He officially became a U.S. citizen in 1920.
Interestingly, John’s obituary in the Joplin Globe claimed that he had been orphaned at the age of seven after the loss of his parents and siblings. However, census records from 1910 and 1920 indicate that his father, Andres Johnson, was living with John and Louisa at their home on 419 South Jackson Avenue. This discrepancy remains under investigation and may warrant a deeper exploration in the future.
Hauntings
Years after the passing of Charles, Wilhelmina, and her mother, the Johnsons briefly moved into the Schifferdecker mansion. Their stay, however, was short. According to family stories, Louisa found it unsettling to live there, reportedly hearing the swish of petticoats on the staircase—sounds she believed belonged to the ghost of her late aunt.
Thu, Nov 04, 1915 ·Page 1
