By Blake Jackson
For generations, one family nurtured the same land, building a legacy that stretched back over 150 years. To honor that heritage, Kyle Estes brought new life to his family’s old farm, transforming it into a vibrant community space known today as Cassidy Station.
What began as a dream to preserve history became a reality in 2022. Kyle renovated five historic buildings on the property, creating a hub for local events and small businesses. The farm now features a mercantile, flower shop, event venue, amphitheater, and seasonal attractions that draw visitors year-round.
The event space, once an old hay barn from the 1800s, retains its rustic charm with original wooden beams and a tall stone fireplace. It’s now a popular location for intimate weddings, showers, and other gatherings. Meanwhile, the mercantile—housed in the former family home—is filled with Missouri-made products, handmade goods, and local treats like sourdough bread. A photo of “Grandma Cookie,” known for her sweet treats, adds a personal touch, especially in winter when a themed baking class takes place.
Throughout the farm, family history is thoughtfully woven into the décor. Items like vintage photos, an old washtub turned display bin, and a repurposed door used as a sales counter speak to the deep roots behind this venture. Even the flower shop has personal meaning—many family members have floral names, and Kyle’s mother once worked as a florist.
In March, Kyle expanded the project by opening another location at Galloway Station. This new site mirrors the style and spirit of the original mercantile and sits where his great-great-grandfather once ran a general store.
The Estes family’s story is one of continuity and care. Kyle and his wife purchased the farm from his grandmother, ensuring it stayed within the family. His grandfather, still a regular visitor, enjoys sipping Coke from a glass bottle—just as he always has.
Through vision and sentiment, Kyle has turned a historic farm into a meaningful, modern space that blends legacy with community life, proving that sometimes, the best way to honor the past is to give it a new purpose.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-nes
Categories: Missouri, General