About
ABOUT THE OWNERS & PROJECT
The Garrison Family
David and Sam Garrison are dedicated to preserving historic spaces and revitalizing rural downtowns, with a strong focus on the heart of Burlingame. Prior to purchasing the Shepard House, they restored a long-vacant downtown building in Osage City—an investment that helped return the property to active use and continues to operate today. They also previously owned the former Aunt B’s building in Burlingame, making the Shepard House their third commercial building investment.
Their commitment to the Shepard House is grounded in long-term investment, community involvement, and a belief that small-town downtowns play a vital role in local identity and economic growth. David and Sam are raising their children in Burlingame, where they attend school and proudly cheer on the Burlingame Bearcats.
David is a certified home and building inspector with background experience in construction and concrete, allowing him to take a hands-on approach to renovations while carefully preserving the building’s historic character. Sam works full-time in the animal health industry and serves as Vice President of the Burlingame Chamber of Commerce, where she actively supports local businesses and community initiatives.
The Ridgeway Family
Brett and Robin Ridgeway are partners in Shepard House Enterprises alongside their daughter and son-in-law, making the project a true family collaboration. Brett is a recently retired machinist and lifelong handyman, and Robin holds an MBA, combining practical skill with strategic business leadership. Together, they own and manage residential rental properties throughout Osage County and surrounding communities.
The Shepard House represents Brett and Robin’s first commercial building investment and a meaningful step in expanding their commitment to thoughtful property stewardship. Their involvement began when Sam and David invited them to tour the building while it was for sale—one visit that quickly evolved into a shared vision to restore, reinvest in, and preserve a landmark deeply valued by the Burlingame community.
The Project
The Shepard House is a 15,000-square-foot historic mixed-use building located at the heart of downtown Burlingame, Kansas. Rebuilt in 1906 following a devastating fire, the building has long been a centerpiece of the community. In recent years, the Shepard House sat vacant for an extended period while tied up in probate, leading to deferred maintenance and limited use.
Today, the building is undergoing a thoughtful rehabilitation focused on preservation, repair, and long-term sustainability. While a full replacement of major systems was not required, all plumbing, electrical, and HVAC systems have been carefully inspected, tested, and repaired as needed. Significant plumbing repairs were necessary due to the building not being winterized during its vacancy. Many historic architectural details remain intact, and the work underway is designed to stabilize, protect, and extend the life of the building while respecting its original character.
When complete, the Shepard House will once again serve as a vibrant, community-centered destination. Businesses feature will be The Den, a tenant-operated bar and grill; Sweet Savings Bank Ice Cream Parlor, owned and operated by the building’s owners; a new laundromat; and multiple event and gathering spaces, called the Stone Hall. The Stone Hall includes the Gathering Dining Room and the Ballroom, which together will support everything from private events and celebrations to community functions.
In addition to businesses, there will be a total of twelve apartments, with two designated as short-term stays. By welcoming both residents and visitors into the building, the Shepard House will help bring consistent activity to downtown Burlingame while supporting surrounding businesses.
As restoration continues, the Shepard House is once again becoming a place for connection, celebration, and everyday life—reaffirming its role as a cornerstone of Burlingame’s downtown and future.
Contact Us
Address
103 N Topeka Ave
Burlingame, KS 66413