Sauer Castle owners set timeline for renovating historic KCK landmark

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (KCTV) - “The history of the castle and the Sauer family is truly amazing, and we want it to be told to many generations.”

The new owners of the Sauer Castle posted on Facebook a lengthy breakdown of what they hope transpires for the 1870s home in Kansas City, Kansas.

The Heitmanns said they are a family living in Fairway, Kansas, and they have restored three historical homes previously.

“We are extremely excited about this project. It is a stunning home and deserves to be enjoyed for another 150 years. We ask for your patience as this restoration will take several years to complete,” the Facebook post read.

The Heitmanns stated that because the Sauer Castle is on the National Register of Historical Places, any work done on the structure must first be approved by state and municipal agencies. However, they expect their initial submission for stabilization and weatherproofing to be approved sometime during the summer.

The new Sauer Castle owners also stated they believe the structure to be haunted.

“Several interesting things have happened over the last few months…topics for another day…,” the post concluded.

Jason Simmons, who grew up in KCK and manages the Sauer Castle Facebook page where the Heitmanns posted their update, has been excited to see fresh ownership investing in the property.

“There’s a new owner in town,” Simmons said. “We’re going to see some positive outcomes.”

For much of his life, Simmons has been keeping tabs on the castle and attempts to renovate it. He had been discouraged by the conditions there under the ownership of Carl Lopp, a descendant of the original owner.

Lopp had been criticized for allowing the property to deteriorate. He was even cited by KCK officials for its condition. At one point, the property was placed in a public sale to pay back taxes owed on the building.

“It’s been sad,” Simmons said. “All we’ve been able to do is share the memories we’ve had of it and the history.”

Simmons added that he’s visited the property since the Heitmanns started working on it. He said he’s already seen improvements to its condition.

“I have faith that this is a dream come true,” he said. “I just can’t believe it.”

Previous reporting: Sauer Castle ownership transferred to LLC

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