7400 A Hwy, Pilot Grove, MO 65276
(660) 834-4140
The land on which Crestmead sets was patented in November 1837. The original land grant and certificate of ownership hang in the entrance hall today. John Taylor, builder of the Italinate Style home, operated his farm, with slave labor until the end of the Civil War. The observatory at the top of the house was used to watch slaves as they worked the fields. Confederate soldiers hid in a flue hide-a-way. Because of losing his freed slaves, Taylor was forced to sell his land and home.
After a succession of four different owners, Will Betteridge bought the farm in 1903. The home was then named Crestmead, meaning high meadow. Bob and Ann Betteridge, present owners, continue raising registered Shorthorn Cattle from the herd established in 1888.
The home has a wide central hall that runs the length of the house. The hall stairs span three stories and features a massive octagonal newell post. The 16 rooms have heavily molded mill work and six mantels. The 8 foot windows extend to the floor. Built-in-shelves in the dining room house the family china. The rooms are filled with period furniture belonging to ancestors of the present owners.
Outbuildings include an ice and carriage house, restored slave quarters, old barn and company, and everyday "necessity houses."
02/15/2002