COLUMBIA, Mo. (AP) — The historic, Victorian house of ragtime pianist J.W "Blind" Boone is set to open this summer after 16 years of renovations.
The Columbia Missourian reports that the J.W. "Blind" Boone Heritage Foundation will host a public celebration this summer before the home opens permanently for tours, receptions and other activities.
The city of Columbia purchased the Boone house from Warren Funeral Home 16 years ago for nearly $180,000.
Renovations totaling more than $800,000 went slowly at times because the house was in such poor condition.
For the past year, the Rev. Clyde Ruffin has sought out various treasures at garage sales, thrift stores and flea markets to accessorize the home. He often refurbished the items himself to put the finishing touches on the home.
