On January 11, I had the honor of participating in the groundbreaking ceremony for the reconstruction of the Joseph Sappington Log Cabin in Sappington Park. This event marked the beginning of a significant project that preserves a vital piece of Crestwood’s history while enhancing the park for future use.
Left to Right: Scott Shipley - Mayor of Crestwood, John Crumrine - BMC Enterprises, Ted Michael - Sappington House Foundation, Dyann Dierkes - Sappington House Foundation, Mark Pratt - Logs Unlimited, Sally Cakouros - Sappington House Foundation, Roger Ottwell - Sappington House Foundation, Axton McCormack - Jeff Day Architects. Photo Credit: John Frey
On January 11, I had the honor of participating in the groundbreaking ceremony for the reconstruction of the Joseph Sappington Log Cabin in Sappington Park. This event marked the beginning of a significant project that preserves a vital piece of Crestwood’s history while enhancing the park for future use.
A Piece of Crestwood’s Past
The Joseph Sappington Log Cabin, built in 1816, holds a special place in Crestwood’s history. Originally located on a farm in Gravois Township and built by Joseph Sappington (cousin of Thomas Sappington), the cabin was carefully dismantled by the Historic Sappington House Foundation in 2021/2022 to prepare for its relocation to Sappington Park.
Mark Pratt, owner of Logs Unlimited, is leading the reconstruction effort. Pratt and his crew meticulously tagged each log during dismantling to ensure they are reassembled exactly as they were originally placed. The logs have since been cleaned, inspected, and stored at Pratt’s work yard. Any logs too damaged for reuse will be replaced with historic logs from his inventory, preserving the authenticity of the structure.
Interior view of one of the five fireplaces
Lap siding installed long ago has helped to keep the logs in great condition
New Life in Sappington Park
The reconstructed cabin will be situated behind The Barn Restaurant and next to the Library Americana building in Sappington Park. The project begins with a significant improvement: a full basement will be constructed to replace the original rubble foundation and narrow cellar.
Once the foundation is complete, the logs will be restacked, and the chimneys rebuilt to restore the two-story cabin to its former glory. Modern updates, such as ADA-compliant restrooms, insulation, energy-efficient windows, and a redesigned front porch, will be added. Despite these updates, the cabin will maintain the historical appearance it had when first built in 1816.
Enhancing the Park
This reconstruction aligns with Crestwood’s Parks Master Plan, addressing previously identified priorities and providing new opportunities for educational programs, cultural events, and community gatherings. The Joseph Sappington Log Cabin will further establish Sappington Park as a destination for residents and visitors alike. Primary reconstruction is expected to be completed in 2025, ensuring the cabin is weather-ready. Interior work will continue afterward, with full completion anticipated by late 2026.
A Public-Private Partnership
This ambitious project is estimated to cost over $500,000. The majority of the funding comes from years of fundraising efforts by the Historic Sappington House Foundation, supported by countless donations. The City of Crestwood is contributing $100,000 to the project, along with $25,000 for utility relocations within the park. Once completed, the Sappington House Foundation will take on responsibility for maintaining the building.
One notable example of community support came from BMC Enterprises, a concrete supplier, which generously donated all the concrete for the basement and foundation. Thank you!!
What’s Next?
Although the groundbreaking is a significant milestone, much work remains. The project is expected to be completed in 2026, and ongoing support from the community will be vital. Whether through donations, volunteering, or advocacy, every contribution helps.
Thank you to everyone who attended the groundbreaking and to those who have supported this project. The Joseph Sappington Log Cabin is a symbol of Crestwood’s dedication to preserving its history while preparing for the future. We look forward to sharing updates as the reconstruction progresses and welcoming the community to this remarkable space in the years ahead.
Learn More
Read more and view videos of the cabin at the Historic Sappington House website.
Tour the Thomas Sappington House - For reservations, call 314-822-8171
Listen to a 17 minute podcast from St. Louis Public Radio about the cabin relocation