Sanford Health in Sioux Falls, SD, has requested the demolition of a 19th-century home it owns, recently discovered to be located in a national historic area. The home, designed by Wallace L. Dow, features unique stone chimneys made from rocks sourced from each South Dakota county. Despite its historic significance, Sanford’s plans for neighborhood expansion have complicated preservation efforts, as the organization owns nearly 200 nearby properties.
Currently, many of these houses are either empty or in disrepair, and while Sanford has invested in improving property occupancy, the costs to rehabilitate the historic home make it economically unfeasible. The Historic Preservation Committee members expressed interest in exploring alternatives to demolition, suggesting that parts of the home could be preserved. However, it’s noted that relocating the house could also incur significant expenses.
Ultimately, the committee voted unanimously to support the demolition proposal, citing the negative impact of maintaining the home in its current state on community needs and expansion plans. Sanford representatives expressed a willingness to collaborate with the city on finding solutions, remaining open to options like relocation or donation while awaiting further discussions on the property’s future.
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