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📸 Credit: St. Charles Historic Preservation Commission agenda packet
A historic St. Charles structure with deep roots in the community now has landmark status.
Known as “John Gartner’s East Side Bakery” and built around 1910, the vernacular-style building at 115 Cedar Avenue remains largely intact in its original form.
According to city documents, Gartner opened the bakery in 1911, which then became a destination for east-side residents. Its new landmark status protects the building from alternations without Historic Preservation Commission approval.
Here’s what to know:
The process: Documents show that the designation was recommended during a public hearing at the January 7 Historic Preservation Commission meeting.
Rich local history: The landmark request emphasizes the site’s business history and community impact, noting that Gartner’s Eastside Bakery served St. Charles residents for roughly 40 years as a popular destination.
Original components: While the doors and windows have been replaced over time, the structure still retains key original elements like the brick chimney, brick exterior walls, and cement foundation, with most openings staying in their original locations.
Building style: According to city documents, vernacular architecture circa 1910 was shaped by local materials and needs, often blending practical construction with popular styles like Queen Anne, Craftsman, and Prairie to create regionally distinctive buildings.
Learn more about the building in this city agenda document.
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