Hailey
In the heart of Hartsburg, Missouri, two historic buildings are up for auction, offering a glimpse into the past and a chance for future owners to shape the town’s legacy.
The Missouri Organic Association has listed The Station and The Grand for sale, starting their auction on July 22, with the bidding set to close on Tuesday at 2:00 p.m.
These properties, which have deep ties to the local community, are seeking new owners who will continue to honor their history and impact the town in meaningful ways.
A Historic Legacy: The Station and The Grand
The two buildings are not just structures; they hold rich history and personal memories. The Station, built by Dotty Manns and her late husband, became an integral part of the town when they opened Dotty’s Cafe in 1996.
Manns has fond memories of the place, but she also recognizes the importance of moving forward. Despite missing the restaurant, Manns says, “I would do it all over if I could,” reflecting on how the cafe became a beloved gathering spot for locals.
The Grand, which dates back to 1897, is next door and offers its own story. Originally built as the Hackman Building, this property has been a cornerstone of Hartsburg for over a century.
According to Jimi Washburn, president of the Missouri Organic Association, both buildings are not just structures; they are a symbol of community, reflecting Hartsburg’s culture and history.
Washburn said, “It has been a rich part of the community for a long time. It was originally built as the Hackman building…many people know it as Dotty’s Cafe. That building was a hub, a restaurant, for the community.”
The Community’s Heart and Soul: Dotty’s Cafe
The Station, which many know as Dotty’s Cafe, has a special place in the hearts of the people of Hartsburg. For Manns, it wasn’t just a place to serve food—it was a place where community bonds were formed and memories created.
She reminisced, “On the last night we were open, we were swamped. I was tired, and we were closing. When I came outside, the whole town brought food and they came inside, we sat and talked about all the good times they had.”
These personal connections are part of the reason why the community is hopeful for the next chapter in the buildings’ history.
Both Manns and Washburn have expressed their desire for new owners who will not only respect the buildings’ past but also find ways to make them a vibrant part of the town’s future.
Hartsburg’s Hopes for the Future
Both Washburn and Manns have high hopes for the future of The Station and The Grand. They believe the right owner will continue the buildings’ legacy, possibly with new events or a business that draws visitors to Hartsburg.
Washburn stated, “We would really like to see the community enjoy something that is a continuous draw.” The potential for a larger vision is there, and both properties’ proximity to the Katy Trail makes them an ideal location for people passing through the area.
As for Manns, she simply hopes that the new owners will love the buildings as much as she did, adding, “I hope something comes to town that benefits the town and that they’ll love it the way I love it.”
Auction Details: What You Need to Know
The auction began in late July, and both properties have attracted attention. As of Sunday night, The Grand had received a bid of $125,000. However, The Station has yet to receive any bids. This is a great opportunity for anyone looking to invest in a piece of Missouri history.
Bidding is scheduled to begin on Tuesday morning, with the auction closing on both properties at 2:00 p.m. Buyers will have the chance to purchase not only historic buildings but also a piece of the community’s legacy.
The Bidding Process: A Chance for New Owners
The Missouri Organic Association has emphasized the importance of finding owners who will bring the properties to their full potential.
With both buildings being historic landmarks, there’s a real opportunity for someone to breathe new life into these spaces, creating something that will benefit both the local community and visitors.
Washburn’s hope is that whoever buys the properties will “truly bring these buildings into full form like they’re meant to be.”
For anyone interested in these properties, the auction provides a unique opportunity to own a piece of Hartsburg’s history. The buildings are ready for transformation, and they could once again become a central hub in the community, just as Dotty’s Cafe once was.
Station and The Grand Auction
| Property | Date Built | Current Bid | Auction Closing Date | Location | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Station | 1996 | No bids yet | Tuesday, 2:00 p.m. | Hartsburg, Missouri | Originally Dotty’s Cafe |
| The Grand | 1897 | $125,000 | Tuesday, 2:00 p.m. | Hartsburg, Missouri | Formerly Hackman Building |
The two properties in downtown Hartsburg hold more than just bricks and mortar—they are a reflection of the town’s past and future.
With rich histories tied to the community, these buildings provide a unique opportunity for new owners to carry forward the legacy of the past while shaping something meaningful for the future.
Whether it’s a return to the days of Dotty’s Cafe or the development of a new community-centered business, The Station and The Grand can be the foundation for the next exciting chapter in Hartsburg’s story.