Jewels of St. Joseph Homes Tour

The idea of six historic locations being open for an up-close look on Sunday, September 15, from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. is apparently so popular that tickets are always snapped up long before tour day! Regularly sold out in the past, this event, “The Jewels of St. Joseph – A Showcase of Architectural Gems,” brings in many locals and visitors from around the region.

“We are absolutely thrilled that people are so excited about this opportunity to view some of the finest architecture in the city,” said Isobel McGowan, owner of the Shakespeare Chateau, which will act as headquarters for the event. “We hate turning people away, so we’ve ordered 600 tickets this year. But when those are gone, people will have to wait a whole year until the next tour is held.”

Visitors can tour the six locations in any order. The homes are in Hall Street and Downtown Districts. “Some of the houses still have ongoing restoration projects, so visitors will have an opportunity to see preservation in action!” said Lisa Rock, co-organizer of the tour. “These buildings are historic artifacts, each with unique character and hand-crafted details.”

“People say, ‘if walls could talk,’” said Haley Lake, a tour co-sponsor. “This tour will offer participants an opportunity to be inside these architectural treasures, talk to the owners or caretakers, and get a feel for the history of the place. Who knows? Maybe those walls will inspire someone who comes on tour day to buy a treasure of his or her own!”

This year’s tour will include three addresses in the Hall Street District: the Shakespeare Chateau at 809 Hall Street, the Garth House at 819 Hall Street, and the Robison House at 631 Hall Street. The tour continues with the 1910 Washington Park Library, 1821 North 3rd Street, the 1920s Zion United Church of Christ at 816 Faraon Street, and the Zion Church Rectory at 814 Faraon Street.

Advance tickets are $25 and available at https://www.shakespearechateau.com/meetings#the-jewels-of-st-joseph-annual-homes-tour. Tickets will be $30 on tour day – if any are still available! Call 816-232-2667 for more information.