From Research to Recognition: The Story of 908 W. Ash

On Tuesday August 26, 2025, University of Missouri professor Carla Cornette spoke to us about her research into the history of her 1928 home at 908 W. Ash. Cornette explained that she became interested in the history of her home and the north central neighborhood when she realized how much the Ash Street Improvement Project would impact her neighborhood. She contacted us at CoMo Preservation for help to begin her research and found our website’s list of links to research resources very helpful. Visit https://www.comopreservation.org/research-resources. She found the links to the Recorder of Deeds and Columbia’s Historic Preservation Commission especially helpful. She learned that her home is within Garth’s Addition, a part of Columbia that was the subject of a June 2006 historic survey of 241 properties constructed between 1925 and 1955. The entire district of Garth’s Addition was found to meet the criteria for a historic district that should be preserved. Cornette successfully nominated her home for Columbia’s list of Most Notable Properties in hopes of helping raise awareness of the beauty and value of retaining Columbia’s historic homes and neighborhoods. 

After Cornette’s presentation, Daniel Boone Regional Library librarian Nina Sappington showed us the library’s collection of City Directories and shared tips on how to use City Directories to research a property in Columbia. She explained that we can look up an address or a particular individual. We then had a chance to use the books ourselves to look up different addresses over the years.   

Check out our Archives for past meeting notes, slides, video, etc.

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.

Questions? Suggestions for speakers or events? Email CoMoPreservation@gmail.com