After being rescued from destruction at its original location in Affton two years ago, the reconstruction and preservation of the 1816 Joseph Sappington Log House is finally beginning. 

The Sappington House Foundation, which now owns the Joseph Sappington Log House, is hosting a groundbreaking event open to the public to kick off the reconstruction effort at 1015 S. Sappington Road  – the new location of the Joseph Sappington Log House – on Jan. 11 at 2 p.m.

Following the groundbreaking event, refreshments will be served in the Library of Americana and Decorative Arts in Historic Sappington Park.

The Joseph Sappington Log House is one of the earliest surviving log structures in St. Louis County. Now located next to the Thomas Sappington 1808 brick house – which is on the National Register of Historic Places and widely considered to be the oldest brick home in St. Louis County – the Joseph Sappington Log House will be repurposed as a five-room rustic learning and event center used for educational activities, events, meetings, exhibits and storage.

It is expected to be completed and open to the public in 2026.

“The reconstruction of this historic cabin is a proud moment for Crestwood, reflecting how our shared history can shape a promising future,” Crestwood Mayor Scott Shipley stated in a press release. “More than just a building, it represents the dedication of those who work to preserve our past and those committed to shaping our future. It will be yet another reason for residents to take pride in Crestwood, and I’m excited to see this vision realized and the lasting benefits it will bring to our city.”

Donations are still being accepted for the preservation project. For more information, contact Sally Cakouros, site manager for Historic Sappington Houses, at 314-822-8171 or sallyc@historicsappingtonhouse.org.