Anne Green, executive director of Historic City of Jefferson
Jefferson City
Dear Editor:
Historic City of Jefferson believes the redevelopment of the Missouri State Penitentiary (MSP) site is critical for the further development of the Capitol Avenue Historic District (CAHD). As such, we are supportive of either proposal moving forward as both will improve the area from its current condition; however, It is imperative that whichever developer is selected, they revise their plan to save as much of the historic wall which encircles the property as possible and the guard tower.
The outer wall and the guard tower are two of the most historically significant structures of not only the MSP but within our city as well. This solid stone wall separated the prisoners from the rest of the community.
We are in the unique situation where the state Capitol was just a few blocks down the road from the prison - a road lined with grand homes, the majority of whose inhabitants had benefited financially from cheap prison labor. Living within feet of one another were some of our state's richest people in their mansions as well as prisoners who lived in much different conditions. Keeping the wall intact and preserving the guard tower provides a constant, visible reminder of our city's history and brings to life the complete separation the wall created.
Historic City of Jefferson urges you to thoroughly read and consider both proposals then provide your thoughts to city officials. Please join us in supporting the redevelopment of the MSP area while also keeping the historic wall and guard tower to ensure our history is not forgotten. Together we can preserve the past to save the future.