This amazing survivor in Grand Center, just behind Powell Hall, used to be the home of Portfolio Gallery, but I don’t know what it is being used for now. As you can see below, it was once part of a row of fashionable residences along what was then Morgan Street. Stephen Allen Bemis, the owner of the house, owned a large bag company in St. Louis and was a member of First Baptist Church.
3500-3514 Delmar, c. 1920-1929, Missouri History Museum, N06353
A lot has happened to the house of the last century, and also in the last decade, since I first photographed it. The conical roof is long gone, and also the gables of the roofs and dormers have recently been covered in what looks to be plywood.
The slate roof, however, looks to be in good shape. When I visited one time, the woodwork was still in great condition in the interior.
But I’m concerned about the broken window.
Also, the front porch was intact before, but now has been demolished. Luckily, the ornate cast iron columns and supports are still there. Looking back, I realize it was looking worse for wear.
