205 8th Street

About this property

Step into a remarkable piece of Hermann history with this historic brick home, built in 1852 by Jacob Rommel, who came to Hermann from Germany. This property has witnessed countless chapters of local history and family life. A vineyard once grew here featuring Norton Virginia Seedling grapes brought from Germany, and during the Civil War, the home is said to have served as a safe house for as many as 50 women and children. It was a warm and welcoming home to the Rommel family and several other Hermann families through the decades. Original character remains throughout, including wood floors, tin ceiling tiles, dining room cabinetry and numerous other historic details. The main level includes a primary bedroom and bath, kitchen, dining room, living room, laundry room and an office or additional bedroom. Upstairs are two bedrooms and a full bath. The large front porch and parlor were once gathering places for dances, social activities and entertaining wine buyers, with tables set for food and drinks. Today, the porch offers a seasonal view overlooking Hermann and the county courthouse near the river. One of the property's most fascinating features is the original stone wine cellar beneath the home, complete with its historic press room. Used by generations of owners, this space offers a remarkable sense of history and connection to the past. The detached building currently used as a family gathering and bar room began as a Hermann country store, added to the property in 1961 by the Bottermuller family. A workshop is located next to it, along with additional buildings that have served as garages and playhouses. In earlier years, the lower levels of the outbuildings housed animals. More recent generations have created their own memories here, enjoying this property as a cozy family home and gathering place. The property encompasses 30 Hermann city lots, offering an uncommon amount of space in addition to its history. The current owner has preserved a collection of documents that help tell the story of the property and the families who have called it home. A truly special opportunity for someone who appreciates historic architecture, local heritage and the responsibility of preserving a remarkable piece of Hermann history for generations to come.