In the heart of Mount Airy, a historic stone mansion built over two centuries ago now stands at a crossroads. Its future is uncertain, and the debate surrounding its preservation has sparked a conversation about the value we place on our city's rich history.
A Historic Home's Plight
The Leibert House, an L-shaped stone mansion constructed around 1808, has a story that spans generations. Originally owned by a prominent bookbinder, William Leibert, it later served as an orphanage and a home for the elderly under the Evangelical Lutheran Church. However, time has taken its toll, and the building now faces an uncertain fate.
The Battle for Preservation
Preservationists like Oscar Beisert, director of the Keeping Society of Philadelphia, fear that the historic building may be demolished. The city's Department of Licenses and Inspections has deemed it "imminently dangerous," citing violations related to its interior, load-bearing walls, and main roof. While there are no immediate plans for demolition, the property's future is shrouded in uncertainty.
Navigating Preservation Challenges
The current owner, NewCourtland, a nonprofit providing affordable housing and healthcare facilities, has expressed interest in expanding its campus. This has raised concerns among preservation advocates. The house's recent historical designation at the city level means NewCourtland must seek approval from the Philadelphia Historical Commission for any demolition plans.
A Complex Decision
NewCourtland's President, Joe Duffey, emphasizes a thoughtful approach, engaging with preservation experts and government officials to understand the site's opportunities and challenges. The decision is a priority, but the process is ongoing, with no clear timeline. The city has ordered NewCourtland to assess the property's structural defects and implement temporary protections, but it cannot force repairs, even for historically designated buildings.
The Reality of Historic Preservation
Paul Steinke, executive director of the Preservation Alliance for Greater Philadelphia, highlights the lack of authority to enforce preservation. "There's no preservation jail," he says. While tearing down neglected historic properties is uncommon, it has happened in Philadelphia, as seen with the 19th Street Baptist Church designed by Frank Furness.
A Call for Priorities
Beisert, who nominated the Leibert House for historic designation, believes its preservation is crucial as Philadelphia prepares to celebrate the nation's 250th anniversary. He questions the city's priorities, stating, "We're restoring meaningless commercial buildings on Market Street, and these buildings are rotting."
A Broader Perspective
The fate of the Leibert House raises questions about our society's commitment to preserving our historical heritage. As we navigate the complexities of urban development and the challenges of maintaining aging structures, it's essential to strike a balance between progress and the preservation of our shared history.
Conclusion
The story of the Leibert House is a reminder that our historical buildings are more than just structures; they are a part of our collective memory. As we move forward, let's hope that the preservation of our past becomes a priority, ensuring that future generations can appreciate and learn from these architectural treasures.
