Nestled on a generous 1.3-acre lot on East Walnut Street in Springfield, Missouri, stands a remarkable piece of history: the city’s oldest standing home. This Italianate-style residence, located at 1260 E. Walnut St. (zip code 65802), is not just a beautiful architectural relic but also boasts a fascinating past, including a connection to the beloved pioneer author, Laura Ingalls Wilder. For those with an appreciation for history and fine living, this meticulously restored property is now on the market, offering a unique opportunity to own a piece of Springfield’s heritage for $1.2 million.
Built in 1869 for a substantial sum of $6,200 – a considerable investment at the time – the house at 1260 E. Walnut Street was commissioned by Waldo Cornwell Booth, a prominent figure in Springfield’s burgeoning 19th-century economy. Booth was a successful dry goods merchant and later the owner of the Old Coon Tobacco Company. His influence extended to civic life as well, as he served as president of the school board. This grand home on East Walnut Street was more than just a residence; it was a statement of Booth’s success and standing within the community. He resided here with his wife, Martha Thomas-Booth, and their four children, establishing the house as a center of Springfield’s social and economic elite.
The historical significance of this East Walnut Street property extends beyond its original owner. Research compiled by Realtor Richard Crabtree reveals a charming anecdote linking the house to Laura Ingalls Wilder, author of the iconic “Little House on the Prairie” series. Wilder, in her biographies, referred to this location as the “horse farm.” During her travels from Mansfield, Missouri, back to Jones Spring in east Springfield, the house served as a welcome resting stop. According to Crabtree, in Wilder’s time, 1260 E. Walnut Street was distinctive as the only property on the street equipped with horse stables. This detail paints a vivid picture of a bygone era, where East Walnut Street was a vital thoroughfare, and this house offered respite to travelers like Wilder on their journeys through the Missouri countryside.
Throughout the late 19th and 20th centuries, ownership of 1260 E. Walnut Street passed through the hands of other prominent Springfield families, each adding their chapter to the home’s rich story. Among these notable residents were Dr. William Park of Cranks Drug Store and the Kickapoo Transit Company, the Stonebreaker family of Springfield Warehouse and Transfer Company and Inland Printing, and the Dickey and Tucker families, who owned the property until 1971 and 2018 respectively. This lineage of owners underscores the enduring appeal and prestige associated with this address on East Walnut Street, solidifying its place within Springfield’s social and economic history.
Richard Crabtree emphasizes the rarity of such a well-preserved post-Civil War era home outside of Missouri’s major metropolitan areas. He draws a comparison to Springfield’s oldest brick house, the Day House on South Avenue, built in 1875, to highlight the historical significance of the East Walnut Street residence. Crabtree notes that “Walnut Street has always been of particular interest just because that’s one of the last bastions of large homes that have been well-preserved outside of Midtown,” suggesting that East Walnut Street retains a unique character and historical charm within Springfield.
While maintaining its original allure, the home at 1260 E. Walnut Street has undergone an extensive and meticulous restoration by its current owners, Christy and Antonio Serrano. Their dedication to preserving the home’s historical integrity while updating it for modern living is evident throughout the property. According to Christy Serrano, the restoration was a labor of love, with efforts including removing and reinstalling each window pane and dedicating 40 hours per week to the project before moving in. This comprehensive renovation included new plumbing and electrical systems throughout the entire house, ensuring that this historic home is not only beautiful but also functionally sound for contemporary living.
The meticulously restored residence boasts 4,090 square feet of living space, featuring four bedrooms and three-and-a-half bathrooms within the main house. The interior is characterized by elegant hardwood floors, soaring high ceilings, and expansive floor-to-ceiling windows that flood the rooms with natural light. The living room, parlor, and formal dining room each feature original mahogany mantels adorning fireplaces, adding to the home’s period charm. The kitchen has been modernized with custom cabinetry, white quartz countertops, stainless-steel appliances, and a large island, blending contemporary convenience with classic style.
A notable highlight of the property is the transformed carriage house, offering an additional 1,461 square feet of living space. Originally horse stables, this structure has been reimagined into a stunning entertainment area, complete with a fifth bedroom, bathroom, and kitchenette. The listing aptly describes the carriage house as a “showstopper,” representing a seamless blend of historical preservation and modern adaptation. Outside, a sprawling patio and courtyard with a fountain provide a private and tranquil outdoor space, perfect for relaxation or entertaining.
For those captivated by history, architecture, and the unique charm of East Walnut Street, this exceptional property at 1260 E. Walnut Street presents an unparalleled opportunity. To explore the possibility of owning Springfield’s oldest standing home and becoming part of its ongoing legacy, interested buyers are encouraged to contact Murney Associates and view the complete listing on their website. This East Walnut Street gem awaits its next chapter, offering a blend of historical grandeur and contemporary luxury to its fortunate new owners.
