11/03/2026
This first photo is of 935 Broadway in the 1920’s, when it was still a pharmacy and already five decades into its life.
Built in 1874 as the Brackett Brothers Drugstore, it remained a pharmacy until roughly 1930. It then spent 1930’s to the early 2000’s as Seiden’s Furs. We can only speculate why the building was originally white but we do know that whitewash and lime-based coatings were often used to preserve brick, stone, wood and other material that could trap moisture.
935 Broadway is the oldest building in the downtown loop. It has been through hell, it has persisted. In its 152 year life it has survived eight fires, the detrimental effects of sandblasting, the destruction of its tall Italianate windows, almost two decades of neglect, the unrelenting elements, a major roof collapse that led to 2200 gallons of water into the basement and the city placing it on the dreaded demolition list. Which was the status of the building in the second picture.
We aren’t inventing a look, we are resurrecting one. One that significantly increases the lifespan of this survivor for many decades to come. We did not paint the building white, it is a lime wash, a breathable mineral finish that allows for moisture to escape, protects the scarred brick and weathers softly like the original. Pics three and four.
But these aren’t the only steps to preserve the facade of this piece of Kansas City history. The tall windows are back! After spending months with a local craftsman, the beautiful transom glass is being reinstalled after being covered for decades. The last piece will be getting the neon sign fully functional and proudly inviting you to join us.
Loretta Jean’s will breathe new life into the building in 2027 and will continue to take steps to preserve its history and tell its story.
A century and a half later, 935 Broadway will once again stand proudly amongst the hustle of downtown. A tangible link to its past and a glimpse into its auspicious future.
Here’s to another 150 years! We can’t wait to celebrate this historic beauty with y’all!
📸 pic 2: Chris Sally
📸 pic 3 & 4 Shaun Y.
