From the 3rd floor
of the Webb City Public Library
Webb City Area Genealogical Society
The following article from the Joplin Globe, dated March 16, 1913, announced heavy business and residential construction in Webb City. It is interesting to note that one of those business buildings, which belonged to the jeweler O.C. Zaumseil, and which was soon transformed into The Minerva, underwent a full restoration 100 years later.
Webb City is showing more activity this year in private and public construction work than has been seen for many years, according to statements of real estate dealers and contractors.
While the activity in construction work is remarkable, there is an unusual amount of real estate in the business and residence sections changing hands daily. The sales are mostly made to local persons.
Throughout the residence districts there are many new houses being erected. The buildings are being constructed along modern lines and are mostly built on the order of bungalows. The demand for rentable property still is increasing.
Among the new buildings, which are going up in the city, is the 110,000-bushel capacity elevator, now under construction by the Ball & Gunning Milling Co. on its property in the west part of the city. The structure will cost not less than $45,000 and will be equipped with modern machinery.
According to local officials of the Frisco, the work on the construction of the new passenger depot will be started not later than the latter part of April. The new depot, according to plans drawn up by Agent McCain, which so far have been accepted by the company, will be the only one of its kind on the entire system. It will cost, when completed, not less than $30,000.
Having purchased party wall right, O.C. Zaumseil, a local jeweler, will erect a two-story brick building on Allen Street (Main) between the E.E. Wood and Wanglin buildings.
The first floor of the building will be occupied by a confectionery store, while the second story will be partitioned into office rooms. The building will cost not less than $12,000.
Negotiations are pending for the sale of the Middle West hotel, a three-story brick structure located in the center of the business district. A company composed of Joplin men is figuring on the proposition and it is stated that the deal will be closed in a few days for a consideration of $23,550.
