Celebrating the Niedermeyer
On October 23, 2025, CoMo Preservation hosted a special event celebrating one of Columbia’s most enduring treasures — the Niedermeyer Building at Tenth and Cherry Streets. Guests enjoyed a behind-the-scenes tour followed by charcuterie and conversation at Magnolia’s Whisky + Wine Bistro. At the event our host, Linda Kievits-Liebert, shared a document she found in the files with information compiled by Frank Whelan, archivist with University of Missouri’s Ellis Library and tenant of Niedermeyer Apartments in the 1970s. The information below is from his compilation.
From Female Academy to Historic Landmark
The story of the Niedermeyer began in 1837, when Columbia leaders — including General Richard Gentry — decided the growing frontier town needed a school to give young women an education. They raised funds to build the Columbia Female Academy on what was then Lot 100, land originally set aside for education purposes by the Smithton Land Company. The building’s brick walls still form the heart of the Niedermeyer today. The Academy had previously been meeting in a variety of locations since 1833. The school became a center of learning for young women, who studied subjects like geometry, chemistry, botany, and natural philosophy — a remarkable curriculum for its time. The Academy closed in 1855 and reopened as Columbia Female Baptist College (now Stephens College) in 1856.
Civic and Social Hub
After a ten-year period of vacancy, the property was purchased by Columbia pharmacist, Dr. Samuel B. Victor for $1,415. In his ownership through 1895, the property was a rental. An 1876 newspaper excerpt in the Missouri Statesman advertising his property as “Some Very Good Houses for Rent.” Upon Victor’s death, the property was purchased by W. F. Cunningham and his wife, Susan, via the executor of the estate, local attorney, Wellington Gordon. The Cunninghams in partnership with local entrepreneur Turner S. Gordon turned the property into the Cottage Hotel. F. W. Niedermeyer purchased the property from the Cunninghams in 1897. He expanded it with new wings in 1901 and 1905, and reimagined it as a fine hotel and gathering place. Renamed the Gordon Hotel in 1901 the location became famous for its food, hospitality and guests. In 1902, Mark Twain dined and delivered a memorable speech there to Phi Beta Kappa members and guests. Twain was in town to receive an honorary degree “Doctor of Laws” from the University of Missouri. The building later served as the University of Missouri’s Department of Domestic Science before becoming the Niedermeyer Apartments in 1921.
Photos courtesy of Jill Womack.
A Legacy of Preservation
Through nearly 190 years, the Niedermeyer has evolved from an academy to a hotel, to apartments—always finding new life while preserving Columbia’s architectural character. Thankfully it stands as a symbol of how adaptive reuse sustains our heritage. CoMo Preservation is grateful to everyone who joined this celebration and to those who continue to champion the preservation of places like the Niedermeyer. By keeping our buildings alive, we keep Columbia’s stories and spirit alive.
CoMo Preservation is devoted to helping homeowners, landlords, and institutions prevent the destruction of historic architecture. Original period styles might be replicated, but will forever lack the social history of authentic structures. The preservation of historic places and spaces gives people a sense of place and boosts Columbia’s economy. You can get involved by becoming a member, volunteering, signing up for our newsletter attending an event, or donating.
