933 South Main Street
Independence, MO, USA

National Register of Historic Places - John and Adele Georgen House

Statement of Significance:

Constructed in circa 1908, the Georgen House, 933 South Main Street, is eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places under Criterion C in the area of Architecture, as a distinctive example of early 20th century stone house construction in Independence, Missouri. Although eclectic in its display of architectural influences, the Georgen House most strongly exemplifies a local adaptation of the Craftsman and Prairie School styles, both of which were emerging at the time of its construction. The dimensionally rough surface treatment of its imposing stonework is noteworthy both aesthetically and in terms of craftsmanship. The locally quarried limestone used in its construction was a popular natural building material throughout the Kansas City area well into the 20th century, although the dry- stacked look of the Georgen House is apparently unique in Independence. Appropriately, as used in the Georgen House, the stone serves to draw closer the relationship between the house and the ground from which it appears to emerge. The house was designed by its original owners, John and Adele Georgen, in circa 1904-1908.5 The Georgens were well-established in Independence and Kansas City society and the house's assertive design reflects not only their status but also their interest in and interpretation of newly introduced architectural styles. The period of significance, 1908, reflects the date of construction.