Discover the Fascinating History of the Stover Mansion: Home of the Founders of Stover Candies in Kansas City

In 1928, Russell and Clara Stover opened their first factory in Kansas City, Missouri, but did not move to the area until 1931. They found a mansion that was in shambles and had been empty for several years. Despite this, Russell saw potential in the property and purchased it for $32,500.

The mansion was built a decade earlier by the Jones family, who had a blended family and built a 25-room mansion with 7 bedrooms, 10 bathrooms, 5 fireplaces, and a ballroom. However, the project drained the estate and the Jones family had to move out, leaving the mansion in the care of the bank.

When the Stovers bought the property, Clara was worried about not having enough money to remodel it. However, her concerns were unfounded as their finances grew with the success of their business. They hired a decorator from Chicago, ordered chandeliers from Europe, and took five years to carpet the mansion. Each bedroom had its own theme and Clara chose to paint with bright and cheerful colors.

Russell died in 1954, but Clara continued to live in the mansion until her death in 1975. The house has had a rich history, with many families enjoying it through the years, and it serves as a symbol of the Stover's success and determination.