Historic Salisbury Foundation recently reacquired this property and are thankful to be in a position to take action on a site which has been an eyesore for the neighborhood for far too long. Our intent when purchasing was absolutely to do our best to save what remained of the structure. This is what we do. Upon closer inspection we discovered most of the original historically significant fabric was destroyed by the fire. The work that had been done was without first stabilizing the decaying foundation so it would all have to come down and rebuilt once the foundation was properly addressed. We called upon local experts who are not only highly skilled and experienced in the construction industry, but also have a broad depth of knowledge with historic buildings. A preponderance of experts agreed that there had been such dilapidation that to repair would not only be very expensive but more importantly the overall integrity of the remaining historic structure was no longer intact.
This changed everything. We sought advisement through the eyes of professionals within the preservations arena, including Preservation North Carolina. We were told to consider the long negative impact this property has had on the community and despite the sincerest desire to save (by the previous Owner and now HSF), moving forward in a new way should be considered as the best option.
After careful and lengthy consideration by the HSF Board of Trustees, a draftsman was hired to draw up plans that will be available to interested buyers. The plans incorporate all remaining historic architectural elements, such as an interior spandrel, cast concrete porch columns, and diamond pane windows (see below). Historic Salisbury Foundation will also consider other plans fitting with the character of the neighborhood that include the use of materials of historic integrity, such as wood windows and wood siding. HSF is committed to finding the right buyer to build a home that not only complements the current streetscape, but will be a standout residence and anchor to the revitalization of the North Main Historic District.
The final, and very significant part of this project, would be to once again place covenants on the property to protect anything original that has been salvaged, restored, and reused. Allowing the remaining bit of history to continue.