The fate of a historic Philadelphia home, built in 1808, hangs in the balance. The Leibert House, a stone mansion along Germantown Avenue, has been deemed 'imminently dangerous' by the city's Department of Licenses and Inspections due to structural issues. This has sparked concern among preservationists who fear the building's potential demolition. The house, once part of a prominent bookbinder's family, has a rich history, having been used as an orphanage and home for the aged and infirm. However, its current state of neglect and the potential for demolition have raised questions about the preservation of historical sites in the city.
The building's future is uncertain, with the nonprofit NewCourtland expressing interest in tearing it down to expand its facility. However, the decision is not final, as the house is now historically designated at the city level, requiring approval from the Philadelphia Historical Commission for any demolition. NewCourtland is taking a 'thoughtful, informed approach' to the situation, consulting with experts and officials to determine the best course of action.
The city has ordered NewCourtland to hire a licensed engineer to assess the property's structural defects and to install temporary protections. Despite the building's historical significance, the department cannot force private owners to make repairs, only imposing fines and liens. This lack of authority extends to the historical commission as well.
The Leibert House's plight is not unique in Philadelphia, as the recent demolition of the 19th Street Baptist Church, designed by Frank Furness, highlights the challenges in preserving historical sites. Preservationists argue that the city's priorities are misaligned, with efforts to restore commercial buildings on Market Street overshadowing the need to preserve historical homes like the Leibert House. As Philadelphia prepares to celebrate its 250th anniversary, the debate over the preservation of historical sites continues to gain momentum.
