115 S. Moffet Avenue
A.B. McConnell/Sol Newman House
circa 1899 | Free Classic Queen Anne
Arthur Bradford “A.B.” McConnell (1846-1926) was identified as handling some of the most important and valuable proprieties in early Joplin. He made a specialty of sub-divisions and platting. He also became financially interested in mining operations. In 1919, the Joplin Globe reported “tongue in cheek” that A.B. was reputed by some old settlers to have carried the dirt to make Joplin. His death notice reported that he was regarded as the dean of Joplin real estate dealers. His wife, Nancy Jane Patterson McConnell (1842-1901) only lived in the house for one year before passing away.
Solomon “Sol” Newman (1863-1944) was the next significant resident of the house, along with his son and daughter. His wife, Frances Strauss Newman (1876-1906), died before the family moved into this house. Sol was associated with Newman’s Mercantile (Department Store) along with his brother Albert Newman, his father Joseph Newman, and brother-in-law Gabriel Newburger. Gabe and Viola Newburger lived across the street at 110 S. Moffet, which was razed in 2004 due to extreme deterioration.
The Newmans and Newburgers were significant members of Joplin’s United Hebrew Congregation. Sol was known for many civic and philanthropic activities. The Newman Department store building at 602 S. Main was restored in 2004 and became Joplin City Hall.
Architecture – The wraparound porch accentuates the asymmetry of the façade. The back porches were added to this house in 1910. There are stained-glass windows on the north side and in the front door sidelights. The interior of the house has been professionally restored complete with period arts and craft wallpaper and Lincrusta wallcovering. The house has two sets of original pocket doors and two fireplaces.
HAPPY 125TH (Quasquicentennial) ANNIVERSARY