opinion
Viewpoint: We need to stop demolishing our historic homes (sponsored)
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By Susan Johnson, guest columnist
From the street, the house at 1025 Henry Clay Ave. resembles an old-fashioned, eclectic California cabin on a generous lot, with an open, full-length wooden porch, chamfered roof, and double front doors with parti-colored inlaid paneling. In its centenary year, it inspires interest, admiration and affection.
Yet the house will soon be torn down, if the new owner has his way. The old cypress tree in the backyard will be cut down, too.
More than this, it looks like the Historic District Landmarks Commission and District A Councilman Joe Giarrusso III are going to let him do it.
On Feb. 2, the HDLC commissioners approved the demolition of 1025 Henry Clay on the recommendation of HDLC staff, with a vote of 10 to 1.