APPLETON, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — A historic home located on Lawrence University’s campus could be demolished by the end of this summer.
The university says fire and other potential safety hazards prompted the decision, but the possible plans to destroy this home are causing some mixed reactions within the community.
Lawrence University has as applied for a demolition permit to take down this house at 128 North Union Street, which is located in Appleton’s City Park Historic District.
The house was built in 1894.
“For Lawrence to decide that it’s easier and cheaper for them on the short term to eliminate a beautiful home like this, it’s a little bit short-sighted from my perspective in that they’re really devaluating the appeal of this general neighborhood,” said Appleton Alderperson, Israel Del Toro.
According to the Wisconsin Historical Society, this house has been on the national register of historic places since 2002.
It contributes to the significance of the City Park Historic District. The historical society says it’s a fine example of a Queen Anne style house with integrity of form and detailing.
“Lawrence knows that the neighborhood and people in the neighborhood really care about the old homes in this place,” said Del Toro.
The City Park Historic District is located within Del Toro’s district.
He says the university held a community conversation on campus to hear input from local residents regarding the demolition last week.
“They care about historic value, they care about keeping this historic district actually historic,” said Del Toro.
Some say they left the meeting with more unanswered questions than they came in with.
“The neighbors here in the neighborhood are largely concerned that that’s going to depreciate the values of their home and make this neighborhood lose a lot of its character,” said Del Toro. “The track record that Lawrence has on maintaining beautiful, old homes like this isn’t spectacular.”
Alderperson Vered Meltzer agrees.
“While it’s too late for this particular house in question, Lawrence isn’t the only owner of old homes that are being neglected and hopefully this can be a wake up call to those responsible to be more responsible with older homes,” said Meltzer.
The city is still reviewing the demolition permit.
“We’re waiting for utility disconnection confirmation from WE Energies and a plumbing firm to cap the source so until those items are taken care of, we can’t issue the permit,” said Kara Homan, Appleton’s Director of Community and Economic Development.
The university hasn’t said what the demolished lot would be used for.
According to the permit application, the cost of the demolition project is $10,000.
Work is estimated to begin mid-July.
