I appreciate you including Ellis Island in your video on historic places. My father came through Ellis Island with his two brothers, and his parents in 1913 from Holland. He was eight at the time. I visited Ellis Island with my youngest son several years ago, and in 2006, my oldest son and I visited Schoondijke, Holland where my father was born. The village had been almost completely destroyed by allied bombing in WWII. About the only thing still standing from the time my father had lived there, was the windmill that had originally been built in 1884, and rebuilt in later years...used by the Hulster family during WWII, to hide downed allied pilots, until they could head back to their units. History, good and bad needs to be remembered and cherished.
If we destroy and forget the built past, we lose any sense of time within ourselves and end up living in a narrow level of now: no perspective, no depth, no critical thinking required.
Absolutely well-put! Understanding and appreciating our history provides context to our present. It helps us to reflect, learn, and make informed decisions for the future. Thanks for sharing such a thoughtful perspective.
I grew up in a beautiful Georgian style home built in 1922. We had a large family and we were not wealthy, so we needed a lot of space for a little money. The house needed a lot of work, and I became my Dad's helper on the weekends on what ever project was the most urgent. When I was about 10 yrs old we found the blueprints in the attic and it was an epiphany for me. I didn't know what an Architect was...I thought the builder just showed up on site and started building. I always loved to draw and build things, and when my Dad explained the drawings to me it opened up a new world. I became fascinated with Architecture and designing homes. I checked out every book in the library on Architecture. I took drafting classes, including Architectural drafting, from 7th grade until I graduated from high school. I went on to college to get my degree in Architecture, and I've been a practicing Architect for 40 years now. Over the years I have designed many homes, additions, renovations, and schools, churches, government buildings, laboratories, and office buildings, and it has been a joy working with families and commercial clients helping them to build their dreams. I don't know what I would be doing now if it weren't for that old house and the beautiful set of drawings that brought it to life. Buildings change lives and hold the memories of all the people that have lived, worked, studied or worshiped in them. They are one of the enduring ways we measure our civilization. History matters, and buildings are one of the best storytellers of that history. I enjoy your channel and look forward to all of your videos, and I usually learn something new with each one. Keep up the good work!
Absolutely worth saving, and not just big grand buildings, but architecture of the common people as well. So much vernacular architecture that can never be replaced. Sadly, most people don't care. As long as they have heat and AC and an easy life, all they care about is living in a shoebox that has zero artistic value. Destroying old buildings is a slap in the face to the craftsmen who built them. The timbers and lumber are of a quality no longer available. I watch even historic sites that are supposedly being cared for falling into ruin!!!!
I couldn't agree more. The beauty and value of vernacular architecture often go unnoticed, but these structures tell stories of everyday lives, cultures, and the growth of communities. It's heartbreaking to see them taken for granted. The craftsmanship, materials, and dedication put into these buildings truly is irreplaceable. It's our collective responsibility to raise awareness and protect these architectural treasures, big or small, for future generations. Thank you for emphasizing this and for your passion for preserving history!
Many more people care than you think! Survival is survival to get ones needs met. By no means does it imply that they do not care. A true craftsman knows he can can replicate but the true value is when a craftsman improves on himself. Haven't you heard of wood reclamation? CERT has a quote about doing good for the greater good. I would rather see the wood reclaimed with anything else needed rebuild or retrofit to our updated standards. American people deserve to live with freedom. When many of those Grandiose buildings were built there was no foreseeing our people's homeless plight world wars and many other things to come
In my country, Georgia, there are many historic wooden houses called Odas which are a cultural icon of the regions they're found in Georgia. Most of the Odas are over a century old, but they're quickly disappearing, This type of house is relatively hard to heat in the winter so 90% of Oda house owners just take it apart and sell the wood. There is NOTHING being done to help keep the traditional house type not completely disappear. My father owns an Oda which was built by my great great great grandpa, but the repairs would cost so much that there is no way we will be able to keep it. Luckily, Odas can be taken apart and rebuilt relatively easily, so all I can do now is hope that when we eventually take the house apart I can convince my father to keep the wood for me so that I can rebuild the house in the future. Our house is stunning and i'm hoping I can save it!
Ken, a well written dissertation on a very important topic. If we forget the past, we are doomed to repeat it - what is the consequence of destroying the physical foundations of our past...? Agreed: preservation creates so much more than new builds. Nonetheless, always play the budget-friendly card when you want to convince the naysayers amongst us.
Thank you for the kind words! You've made a crucial point. By preserving the tangible pieces of our past, we not only honor history but also gain insights that can guide our future. As for the budget-friendly angle, it's true that sometimes, preservation can be more economical in the long run. It's all about striking a balance and ensuring we prioritize both the value of our history and the practicalities of the present. Thanks for your insightful comment!
Ken, this is such an important video. If we don’t preserve our past, the next generation is losing more than they can understand. Thank you for sharing your message 💜
Of course historic homes & buildings should be preserved!! These magnificent places have tons of character & are windows into our past!!! Thanks Ken for sharing this interesting video!!! 👍👍🙂
Thank you so much for your kind words and enthusiasm! I couldn't agree more. These historic structures are indeed like time capsules, giving us glimpses into different eras and the lives of those who came before us. It's a privilege to be able to share content that resonates with you. Thanks for your support and for valuing our shared history!
@@ThisHouse you're welcome Ken, Yes I have a great appreciation for historic homes. I grew up in Redlands California & there are so many magnificent homes here, they are so gorgeous & so well preserved!!! 👍👍🙂
Ken, the buildings and homes that you cover are not just that they are art. What a boring world this would be if it weren’t for people like you. It’s actually like a virtual museum to me on architecture. Keep up the great work! There was a beautiful building in Omaha. It was where my father worked so it had special meaning to me. It was on North 16th off of Dodge Street. It had a beautiful bell tower, and it was built out of granite, and it was torn down in 1967, it really broke my heart. The one thing I do remember is they found a flag in the attic and everything stopped while they took the flag out and folded it properly and removed it. That brings tears to my eyes even now.
Its so sad and so wasteful that they tear down these older homes. They were built to last and much of the wood they were built with you can't get anymore and you sure can't get the same quality. They are part of our history and they add character and diversity to our cities. It is important to teach younger generations about our history and what it took to build this nation.
The Statue of Liberty shows our acceptance of other cultures: Consider This: One of out greatest national symbols is a foreign import! (Gift of France). So, Yeah BABY! I'm STILL as AMERICAN as F**K even when I'm riding my Honda CB-750! 👍😎👍 And to go the OTHER way, The fire at Notre Dame was (to me) one of the most shocking thing I saw in my life, While I understand there was not the same loss in human lives, It was up there with 9/11 when it came to the WTF scale.
I wish the United States had preservation guidelines like the UK with different grades. And as has been stated before, when we preserve the ordinary as well as the extraordinary, we fill in the full spectrum of history. Thank you, Ken, for all you do in encouraging historic preservation.
It's truly heartbreaking to see beautiful old structures falling victim to neglect or intentional damage. Every building has a story, and when we lose them, we lose a piece of our shared history. I share your sentiment, and I hope more awareness is raised about the importance of preserving these gems. Thanks for highlighting this concern and for your appreciation of historic architecture!
Congratulation on making a good case culturally, economically and ecologically for the preservation of architecture. It may be more difficult in some countries. England is filled with old brick or stone houses, often centuries old. They are tremendously beautiful, but I shiver at the mere idea of heating one!
A great commentary on the multiple benefits of historic preservation. I especially like the concept that the bricks and mortar of buildings are the tangible links to our shared stories. I am reminded of a Native American saying which refers to preserving the natural environment but applies equally to the built environment. Paraphrasing, the saying notes that we don't inherit these places from our ancestors, we borrow them from our children. Once these wonderful structures with their stories are torn down, they are gone forever. We all need to be responsible stewards so that future generations will have the same opportunities we do to be enriched by the beauty and history that these buildings provide.
I wish we preserved building in the US like they do in Europe. Modern design has so little character or warmth! Not to mention being wasteful with materials and resources by tearing things down. Great video!
Thank you for your feedback! It's true, many places in Europe have a rich tradition of preserving and valuing their historical architecture. Every corner there seems to tell a story. While modern design has its own merits, there's something undeniably special about the character of older structures. It's not just about preserving history, but also sustainability and resource conservation. I'm glad you enjoyed the video, and I appreciate your perspective on this topic!
It's (to me) wild that the demolition of Pennsylvania Station was a catalyst to spark historic preservation. The station was not very old at all, It was opened in 1910 and demolition began in 1963. This is exactly the SAME as demolishing a building from...1970 today. No one would give a flying rat's ass about the loss of a 1970 building. In fact, the demolishing of the current Madison Square Garden would be historically "worse" as its lifetime covers more time than Penn Station! There IS a difference though. Post WW2 architecture (Aside from some cool "googie" space age commercial buildings) are bland, depressing boxes that no one would miss. We STILL destroy fine architecture of the past. I live in Pittsburgh, where they "talk" about history, but has DESTROYED it with GLEE. (Sorry, My North Side ass gets bitter...) Not "Just" the destruction that went on in the "urban renewal" era of the 1950's-1970s, it's happening NOW. I have seen houses from the 1830s - 1870s come down in the LAST 10 YEARS! I know I pointed out that Penn Station was not OLD, But it WAS Beautifull, That's the difference! There was a "charm", or "grace" to pre-WW2 buildings that makes a difference. Don't get me wrong, I'm NOT saying this as an "old man" (Though I AM an old man...) I was born and raised when this "Brutalist", "Glass Box" SOULLESS shit was being built....And I hate it! That's WHY I would not protest a 1970 train station being removed for a new one. Hell, Our circa 1959 Greyhound bus station was replaced by a new one. The new one functionally is better and it about the same artistically as the 1959 station..: Meh. I'll keep my ordinary '70s North Side rowhouse...1870s!
Excellent!! We have two great preservation societies near me: Historic New England and The Preservation Society of Newport County (3 if you count Old Sturbridge Village). Please remember one thing: they are building crap now, but they also built crap in the past. Old is not always historic. I love preservation, but I get upset with the idea that every old building must be saved. This can make preservation-minded people sound like the boy that cried wolf.
It's wonderful to hear about the preservation societies in your area doing commendable work. You make a valid point - not every old structure necessarily holds historic or architectural significance. It's essential to approach preservation with discernment, ensuring we focus on what truly matters while allowing for progress where needed. Striking that balance is crucial so that the cause of preservation remains credible and impactful. Thanks for the insightful comment and for championing thoughtful preservation!
I fully agree with the other commenters about the importance of the past yet at this very Minute ,The New York City Council is working on a bill that would remove certain works of art or sculptures such as George Washington and Christopher Columbus etc. Because of so called ties to slavery! The file number is Int 1085-2023.
That's why we're here, Ken! To see what fascinating old mansion or unique house you have culled from the archives. While sometimes we have to be happy just to have the exterior preserved in keeping with the original building, it's a true joy to see a property restored to it's original condition and furnished as appropriate for the period. Extra points of items owned by the original family or other occupant from the past can be returned and put on display. There are folks all across the country restoring old homes, and it's great to have another forum here to share our thoughts. And not only old homes, but historic gardens and public spaces should also be restored when possible. Innovative design and well planned spaces can dovetail in the historic with modern needs, creating something wonderful. Near our little downtown area, the library, post office, police station, and fire station (with arched stained wood doors where the engines come out!), are all new, but in keeping with the vintage buildings nearby. Nobody misses the 1960s bland civic buildings with the perforated drop ceilings and blah linoleum that they replaced. I adored Mr. Vernon when we visited in 2019, and Gadsby's Tavern (circa 1777) was a great place to eat in Old Alexandria, VA. I just love the smell of old wood! Cheers!
Thanks for doing this video. I've always been in favor of historic preservation since the buildings built a century ago often times are superior to today's modern builds. I grew up in a house built in 1902 in San Francisco. It was built prior to the great 1906 earthquake and fire and withstood the quake and fire. The house today has been repurposed as a small office building - due, in no small part, to the quality of the build. It preserves the street scape but is gradually being overrun by "modern" or ugly buildings. I'm so sorry that the houses of yesterday are being torn down to build ticky-tacky apartments (but I also am sensitive to the lack of affordable housing in San Francisco). Perhaps you could do a follow-up video discussing specific buildings which were saved from the wrecking ball and the costs to restore/repurpose vs. tear down/build new.
Apparently, not everyone feels that history should be saved, especially statues. How many have been "taken down" simply because they glorified persons or places of our Civil War that perpetrated slavery. Also, many towns have destroyed historic buildings simply because a). they could [someone wanted the location & had the money]; b). it was too costly to renovate the structure; or c). the old structure wasn't "historic" enough to keep simply for the architectural style.
Thank you! Very well done. I enjoy your show so very much and I’m so happy I watched this one tonight. It warms my heart to know how much you care. I saw my beloved Carson mansion and the ‘pink lady’ in Eureka California on your video, and it made me smile. Thank you again for such a great show.
Watch where the money goes. Used to live in a rural county that wanted to preserve everything that was still standing after 50 years. They spent millions we really never had. Then you find out the County Commissioners are all related to the contractors doing the preservation work. Uncles, brothers, cousins -- lots of money flowed toward people to preserve stuff that was vaguely historical, if at all.
Yes, Yes, and Yes on all points. To piggyback on the advantages of Historic Districts is also to preserve the commercial services that have shaped travel and nourishment over the many years. Commercial preservation should not be forgotten, while not a s regal as others..it was the backbone of the later growth of America. Yes, I'm a Roadside nut, in addition to an classic architecture lover
I am totally connected to the Pittock Mansion in Portland OR, the most beautiful house I have ever seen. I think the first time I visited was on a field trip when I was in first grade. I do not have a supernatural or unexplained connection, but it does remain the most beautiful house I have ever seen. That first visit was half a century ago. 💕
A very nice visual essay. Something we should all know, but quite often we just don't remember. Once an historic house is gone, it will never be recreated, the cost and time is just too much for most people. We need to keep and preserve what we have for ourselves and future generations. What we admire today can only be admired by our children and grandchildren if we take the time and effort to preserve it.
Aside from the historic value, so many of these old structures are also masterpieces of applied art. There are details, like woodwork hand-carved by skilled craftsmen that are too costly to replicate in current times. They are made from materials, such as floors cut from old-growth timber that are now almost impossible to have installed in a new building. Personally, I always choose to be surrounded by things that are useful and beautiful over the dull and utilitarian.
While i appreciate the architecture and history behind many old buildings, being in the trades and having had asbestos and lead safe certification i nave to say many structures just arent worth the work to abate. Once you have to rip open all the walls to remove lead pipes and dangerous wiring to make a structure habitable theres really little left. And, once you open a permit to do that work you need to bring the rest up to code in order to regain a certificate of occupancy. There are lots of things like stairs too steep and narrow, inadequate ventilation or insulation. The list goes on.... (and i live in a _very_ affluent town where people spend huge money to fight the building department and P&Z to keep older homes intact)
Absolutely. It is as important as saving our other classical works of art. It is the expression of our many different cultures and communities that deserve to be preserved to at least some extent.
We need to save as many of these incredible buildings as we can. They are so important to our history. The stunning craftsmanship is just not there anymore.
That's a fascinating point! Le Corbusier's vision was indeed revolutionary, and while he brought many innovative ideas to the world of architecture, his concepts were sometimes at odds with traditional urban aesthetics. Haussmann's Paris is a masterpiece, and it's hard to imagine it replaced with modern skyscrapers. It's interesting to reflect on how different visions can shape or potentially reshape our urban landscapes. Thanks for sparking this conversation!
I would not mind finding a nice blueprint of an old home and having it built from scratch, however, the materials would make it so it would not be the same.
We bought a modest home that is over 100 years old. Large windows. river rock porch, and painted wood floors. It had been renovated in the 1960s and left mostly intact. The first time I walked in our house, I felt it was home and I asked God if we could have it. What I appreciate about our old home is how well suited it is to modern living. Flat screen televisions, laptops, and smaller audio components fit perfectly into a 100 year old evironment. The minimalist and transitory lifestyle of the younger generations is a perfect fit for the smaller craftsmans/bungalows of the 1920s. During the lockdown period I was grateful for large windows circulating air, 9 foot ceilings, our inset front porch, and large backyard. Most of our older neighborhoods are very walkable as well and are located near city center. That noted, our community has streets of modest homes built in the early parts of the last century, and the community is committed to the preservation of its historic district's homes/properties and commercial buildings. Our state (Southern California) has mandated building ADUs on the smallest single family lots possible, and has mandated "low income housing," often in the form of new 80 to 120 unit apartment complex developments. My hope is that homes like ours will persist and be cared for until the next generation--our kids--become their stewards and caretakers. 😊
I love this. An excellent video. Thanks so much for detailing all of the progress in architectural preservation. My own personal "favourite" historical place would be Parkwood Estates here in my home town of Oshawa Ontario.
Well done, Ken. One of the most important contributions to preservation is to instill awe, wonder and respect for this in our children. That means immersing them in it through field trips around their own hometowns and teaching that captivates. Additionally, their eyes need training via art classes. We have turned out 2 generations of people who see yet are blind to beauty, captured by fast fixes like Wayfair and Magnolia!
With the destruction of so many beautiful historic private and public gems in New York city alone between 1940 to the mid 60s it was the reason that old buildings must be saved.
It is wonderful to see the architect from the past. In Dallas Tx the old are taken down if new buildings built in the same spots. The find older areas you need to go east to a deep elum area of one or two story buildings. My town knocked down the first school house of a small garden house development.
I have an ambitious project and have chosen Cairo Illinois to be the possible destination. In doing so, I have learned of The Historic District of Cairo Illinois. It is an amazing place with a lot of great buildings and history. The group within Cairo is very passionate about persevering these historical sights. I encourage you to make a video of this area and bring attention to what they are doing. It is a very positive, ambitious, and noble undertaking. Let me know if you are interested, and I will see if they would be interested in giving you a tour of all of their historic sights. It's amazing. I'm new to your channel so maybe you have already been there. If so, please share a link I would be interested in seeing the video :). Take care, Caleb
Love this question. Why? There is no easy answer. This question may always exist in architecture. Another way to ask it is "Which is greater? The immovable object or the unstoppable force". Both are tangible and intangible. Same with buildings. I feel everyone will know in their hearts when it is time to pull a building down. I feel buildings where multiple deaths occurred should be demolished to refresh in the open air for a long while. For example, WW2 buildings (you know the ones I'm speaking of).
Have you ever felt connected to an old building or historic site? Share your experiences and memories below!
I appreciate you including Ellis Island in your video on historic places. My father came through Ellis Island with his two brothers, and his parents in 1913 from Holland. He was eight at the time. I visited Ellis Island with my youngest son several years ago, and in 2006, my oldest son and I visited Schoondijke, Holland where my father was born. The village had been almost completely destroyed by allied bombing in WWII. About the only thing still standing from the time my father had lived there, was the windmill that had originally been built in 1884, and rebuilt in later years...used by the Hulster family during WWII, to hide downed allied pilots, until they could head back to their units. History, good and bad needs to be remembered and cherished.
When I became a guide at Newport’s The Breakers (Vanderbilt family) I fell in love with the house and it’s history. 🚂 🎩
Absolutely. Historic houses and artifacts should be preserved.
I completely agree! Cheers!
If we destroy and forget the built past, we lose any sense of time within ourselves and end up living in a narrow level of now: no perspective, no depth, no critical thinking required.
Absolutely well-put! Understanding and appreciating our history provides context to our present. It helps us to reflect, learn, and make informed decisions for the future. Thanks for sharing such a thoughtful perspective.
I grew up in a beautiful Georgian style home built in 1922. We had a large family and we were not wealthy, so we needed a lot of space for a little money. The house needed a lot of work, and I became my Dad's helper on the weekends on what ever project was the most urgent. When I was about 10 yrs old we found the blueprints in the attic and it was an epiphany for me. I didn't know what an Architect was...I thought the builder just showed up on site and started building. I always loved to draw and build things, and when my Dad explained the drawings to me it opened up a new world. I became fascinated with Architecture and designing homes. I checked out every book in the library on Architecture. I took drafting classes, including Architectural drafting, from 7th grade until I graduated from high school. I went on to college to get my degree in Architecture, and I've been a practicing Architect for 40 years now. Over the years I have designed many homes, additions, renovations, and schools, churches, government buildings, laboratories, and office buildings, and it has been a joy working with families and commercial clients helping them to build their dreams. I don't know what I would be doing now if it weren't for that old house and the beautiful set of drawings that brought it to life. Buildings change lives and hold the memories of all the people that have lived, worked, studied or worshiped in them. They are one of the enduring ways we measure our civilization. History matters, and buildings are one of the best storytellers of that history.
I enjoy your channel and look forward to all of your videos, and I usually learn something new with each one. Keep up the good work!
Absolutely worth saving, and not just big grand buildings, but architecture of the common people as well. So much vernacular architecture that can never be replaced. Sadly, most people don't care. As long as they have heat and AC and an easy life, all they care about is living in a shoebox that has zero artistic value.
Destroying old buildings is a slap in the face to the craftsmen who built them. The timbers and lumber are of a quality no longer available. I watch even historic sites that are supposedly being cared for falling into ruin!!!!
I couldn't agree more. The beauty and value of vernacular architecture often go unnoticed, but these structures tell stories of everyday lives, cultures, and the growth of communities. It's heartbreaking to see them taken for granted. The craftsmanship, materials, and dedication put into these buildings truly is irreplaceable. It's our collective responsibility to raise awareness and protect these architectural treasures, big or small, for future generations. Thank you for emphasizing this and for your passion for preserving history!
Many more people care than you think! Survival is survival to get ones needs met. By no means does it imply that they do not care. A true craftsman knows he can can replicate but the true value is when a craftsman improves on himself. Haven't you heard of wood reclamation? CERT has a quote about doing good for the greater good. I would rather see the wood reclaimed with anything else needed rebuild or retrofit to our updated standards. American people deserve to live with freedom. When many of those Grandiose buildings were built there was no foreseeing our people's homeless plight world wars and many other things to come
In my country, Georgia, there are many historic wooden houses called Odas which are a cultural icon of the regions they're found in Georgia. Most of the Odas are over a century old, but they're quickly disappearing, This type of house is relatively hard to heat in the winter so 90% of Oda house owners just take it apart and sell the wood. There is NOTHING being done to help keep the traditional house type not completely disappear. My father owns an Oda which was built by my great great great grandpa, but the repairs would cost so much that there is no way we will be able to keep it. Luckily, Odas can be taken apart and rebuilt relatively easily, so all I can do now is hope that when we eventually take the house apart I can convince my father to keep the wood for me so that I can rebuild the house in the future. Our house is stunning and i'm hoping I can save it!
I am an old soul and it makes me sick when I see old historic homes and buildings being torn down!! It is never " just a building" in my mind!
Ken, a well written dissertation on a very important topic. If we forget the past, we are doomed to repeat it - what is the consequence of destroying the physical foundations of our past...? Agreed: preservation creates so much more than new builds. Nonetheless, always play the budget-friendly card when you want to convince the naysayers amongst us.
Thank you for the kind words! You've made a crucial point. By preserving the tangible pieces of our past, we not only honor history but also gain insights that can guide our future. As for the budget-friendly angle, it's true that sometimes, preservation can be more economical in the long run. It's all about striking a balance and ensuring we prioritize both the value of our history and the practicalities of the present. Thanks for your insightful comment!
Ken, this is such an important video. If we don’t preserve our past, the next generation is losing more than they can understand. Thank you for sharing your message 💜
Of course historic homes & buildings should be preserved!! These magnificent places have tons of character & are windows into our past!!! Thanks Ken for sharing this interesting video!!! 👍👍🙂
Thank you so much for your kind words and enthusiasm! I couldn't agree more. These historic structures are indeed like time capsules, giving us glimpses into different eras and the lives of those who came before us. It's a privilege to be able to share content that resonates with you. Thanks for your support and for valuing our shared history!
@@ThisHouse you're welcome Ken, Yes I have a great appreciation for historic homes. I grew up in Redlands California & there are so many magnificent homes here, they are so gorgeous & so well preserved!!! 👍👍🙂
Ken, the buildings and homes that you cover are not just that they are art. What a boring world this would be if it weren’t for people like you. It’s actually like a virtual museum to me on architecture. Keep up the great work! There was a beautiful building in Omaha. It was where my father worked so it had special meaning to me. It was on North 16th off of Dodge Street. It had a beautiful bell tower, and it was built out of granite, and it was torn down in 1967, it really broke my heart. The one thing I do remember is they found a flag in the attic and everything stopped while they took the flag out and folded it properly and removed it. That brings tears to my eyes even now.
Its so sad and so wasteful that they tear down these older homes. They were built to last and much of the wood they were built with you can't get anymore and you sure can't get the same quality. They are part of our history and they add character and diversity to our cities. It is important to teach younger generations about our history and what it took to build this nation.
I agree with you 100 percent, sharing this to my community page
The Statue of Liberty shows our acceptance of other cultures: Consider This: One of out greatest national symbols is a foreign import! (Gift of France). So, Yeah BABY! I'm STILL as AMERICAN as F**K even when I'm riding my Honda CB-750! 👍😎👍 And to go the OTHER way, The fire at Notre Dame was (to me) one of the most shocking thing I saw in my life, While I understand there was not the same loss in human lives, It was up there with 9/11 when it came to the WTF scale.
The worst tradedy was Pennsylvania Station in Manhattan
" he who controls the past, controls the future".
I wish the United States had preservation guidelines like the UK with different grades. And as has been stated before, when we preserve the ordinary as well as the extraordinary, we fill in the full spectrum of history. Thank you, Ken, for all you do in encouraging historic preservation.
Love all the old bldgs. & homes around me. Sad when places are left to go too long & wind up suffering from arson or getting knocked down.
It's truly heartbreaking to see beautiful old structures falling victim to neglect or intentional damage. Every building has a story, and when we lose them, we lose a piece of our shared history. I share your sentiment, and I hope more awareness is raised about the importance of preserving these gems. Thanks for highlighting this concern and for your appreciation of historic architecture!
@@ThisHouse Thank you 👋
Congratulation on making a good case culturally, economically and ecologically for the preservation of architecture. It may be more difficult in some countries. England is filled with old brick or stone houses, often centuries old. They are tremendously beautiful, but I shiver at the mere idea of heating one!
A great commentary on the multiple benefits of historic preservation. I especially like the concept that the bricks and mortar of buildings are the tangible links to our shared stories. I am reminded of a Native American saying which refers to preserving the natural environment but applies equally to the built environment. Paraphrasing, the saying notes that we don't inherit these places from our ancestors, we borrow them from our children. Once these wonderful structures with their stories are torn down, they are gone forever. We all need to be responsible stewards so that future generations will have the same opportunities we do to be enriched by the beauty and history that these buildings provide.
Well done Ken. We’ve lost so many homes. One my great grandfather built was torn down. Would’ve liked to save it.
I learn something every time I watch this channel! Thank you for sharing your passion.
Ken, so eloquently stated...the past links us all together into the future..thank you
Wow! Your narrative was both educational and entertaining.
One of your best videos, Ken.
Excellent video. Thanks
I wish we preserved building in the US like they do in Europe. Modern design has so little character or warmth! Not to mention being wasteful with materials and resources by tearing things down. Great video!
Thank you for your feedback! It's true, many places in Europe have a rich tradition of preserving and valuing their historical architecture. Every corner there seems to tell a story. While modern design has its own merits, there's something undeniably special about the character of older structures. It's not just about preserving history, but also sustainability and resource conservation. I'm glad you enjoyed the video, and I appreciate your perspective on this topic!
Agreed! Enjoy your channel, keep up the good work!
This was really interesting and beautifully done!
I’m so glad you enjoyed it, cheers!
It's (to me) wild that the demolition of Pennsylvania Station was a catalyst to spark historic preservation. The station was not very old at all, It was opened in 1910 and demolition began in 1963. This is exactly the SAME as demolishing a building from...1970 today. No one would give a flying rat's ass about the loss of a 1970 building. In fact, the demolishing of the current Madison Square Garden would be historically "worse" as its lifetime covers more time than Penn Station! There IS a difference though. Post WW2 architecture (Aside from some cool "googie" space age commercial buildings) are bland, depressing boxes that no one would miss. We STILL destroy fine architecture of the past. I live in Pittsburgh, where they "talk" about history, but has DESTROYED it with GLEE. (Sorry, My North Side ass gets bitter...) Not "Just" the destruction that went on in the "urban renewal" era of the 1950's-1970s, it's happening NOW. I have seen houses from the 1830s - 1870s come down in the LAST 10 YEARS! I know I pointed out that Penn Station was not OLD, But it WAS Beautifull, That's the difference! There was a "charm", or "grace" to pre-WW2 buildings that makes a difference. Don't get me wrong, I'm NOT saying this as an "old man" (Though I AM an old man...) I was born and raised when this "Brutalist", "Glass Box" SOULLESS shit was being built....And I hate it! That's WHY I would not protest a 1970 train station being removed for a new one. Hell, Our circa 1959 Greyhound bus station was replaced by a new one. The new one functionally is better and it about the same artistically as the 1959 station..: Meh. I'll keep my ordinary '70s North Side rowhouse...1870s!
Excellent!! We have two great preservation societies near me: Historic New England and The Preservation Society of Newport County (3 if you count Old Sturbridge Village). Please remember one thing: they are building crap now, but they also built crap in the past. Old is not always historic. I love preservation, but I get upset with the idea that every old building must be saved. This can make preservation-minded people sound like the boy that cried wolf.
It's wonderful to hear about the preservation societies in your area doing commendable work. You make a valid point - not every old structure necessarily holds historic or architectural significance. It's essential to approach preservation with discernment, ensuring we focus on what truly matters while allowing for progress where needed. Striking that balance is crucial so that the cause of preservation remains credible and impactful. Thanks for the insightful comment and for championing thoughtful preservation!
I fully agree with the other commenters about the importance of the past yet at this very Minute ,The New York City Council is working on a bill that would remove certain works of art or sculptures such as George Washington and Christopher Columbus etc. Because of so called ties to slavery! The file number is Int 1085-2023.
Victorian homes are works of art.
That's why we're here, Ken! To see what fascinating old mansion or unique house you have culled from the archives. While sometimes we have to be happy just to have the exterior preserved in keeping with the original building, it's a true joy to see a property restored to it's original condition and furnished as appropriate for the period. Extra points of items owned by the original family or other occupant from the past can be returned and put on display. There are folks all across the country restoring old homes, and it's great to have another forum here to share our thoughts. And not only old homes, but historic gardens and public spaces should also be restored when possible. Innovative design and well planned spaces can dovetail in the historic with modern needs, creating something wonderful. Near our little downtown area, the library, post office, police station, and fire station (with arched stained wood doors where the engines come out!), are all new, but in keeping with the vintage buildings nearby. Nobody misses the 1960s bland civic buildings with the perforated drop ceilings and blah linoleum that they replaced. I adored Mr. Vernon when we visited in 2019, and Gadsby's Tavern (circa 1777) was a great place to eat in Old Alexandria, VA. I just love the smell of old wood! Cheers!
Thanks for doing this video. I've always been in favor of historic preservation since the buildings built a century ago often times are superior to today's modern builds. I grew up in a house built in 1902 in San Francisco. It was built prior to the great 1906 earthquake and fire and withstood the quake and fire. The house today has been repurposed as a small office building - due, in no small part, to the quality of the build. It preserves the street scape but is gradually being overrun by "modern" or ugly buildings. I'm so sorry that the houses of yesterday are being torn down to build ticky-tacky apartments (but I also am sensitive to the lack of affordable housing in San Francisco). Perhaps you could do a follow-up video discussing specific buildings which were saved from the wrecking ball and the costs to restore/repurpose vs. tear down/build new.
Apparently, not everyone feels that history should be saved, especially statues. How many have been "taken down" simply because they glorified persons or places of our Civil War that perpetrated slavery. Also, many towns have destroyed historic buildings simply because a). they could [someone wanted the location & had the money]; b). it was too costly to renovate the structure; or c). the old structure wasn't "historic" enough to keep simply for the architectural style.
Thank you! Very well done. I enjoy your show so very much and I’m so happy I watched this one tonight. It warms my heart to know how much you care. I saw my beloved Carson mansion and the ‘pink lady’ in Eureka California on your video, and it made me smile. Thank you again for such a great show.
Watch where the money goes. Used to live in a rural county that wanted to preserve everything that was still standing after 50 years. They spent millions we really never had. Then you find out the County Commissioners are all related to the contractors doing the preservation work. Uncles, brothers, cousins -- lots of money flowed toward people to preserve stuff that was vaguely historical, if at all.
That's concerning to hear. Preservation is undoubtedly a noble cause, but transparency, integrity, and accountability are paramount.
Yes, Yes, and Yes on all points. To piggyback on the advantages of Historic Districts is also to preserve the commercial services that have shaped travel and nourishment over the many years. Commercial preservation should not be forgotten, while not a s regal as others..it was the backbone of the later growth of America. Yes, I'm a Roadside nut, in addition to an classic architecture lover
Definitely they need to be saved
I am totally connected to the Pittock Mansion in Portland OR, the most beautiful house I have ever seen. I think the first time I visited was on a field trip when I was in first grade. I do not have a supernatural or unexplained connection, but it does remain the most beautiful house I have ever seen. That first visit was half a century ago. 💕
A very nice visual essay. Something we should all know, but quite often we just don't remember. Once an historic house is gone, it will never be recreated, the cost and time is just too much for most people. We need to keep and preserve what we have for ourselves and future generations. What we admire today can only be admired by our children and grandchildren if we take the time and effort to preserve it.
Aside from the historic value, so many of these old structures are also masterpieces of applied art. There are details, like woodwork hand-carved by skilled craftsmen that are too costly to replicate in current times. They are made from materials, such as floors cut from old-growth timber that are now almost impossible to have installed in a new building. Personally, I always choose to be surrounded by things that are useful and beautiful over the dull and utilitarian.
While i appreciate the architecture and history behind many old buildings, being in the trades and having had asbestos and lead safe certification i nave to say many structures just arent worth the work to abate.
Once you have to rip open all the walls to remove lead pipes and dangerous wiring to make a structure habitable theres really little left.
And, once you open a permit to do that work you need to bring the rest up to code in order to regain a certificate of occupancy.
There are lots of things like stairs too steep and narrow, inadequate ventilation or insulation. The list goes on....
(and i live in a _very_ affluent town where people spend huge money to fight the building department and P&Z to keep older homes intact)
I will never understand why so many Americans want to tear things down and replace them with flimsy buildings.
Absolutely. It is as important as saving our other classical works of art. It is the expression of our many different cultures and communities that deserve to be preserved to at least some extent.
We need to save as many of these incredible buildings as we can. They are so important to our history. The stunning craftsmanship is just not there anymore.
the feeling one gets
walking inside a classic
old structure won't be
replaced by the new
An excellent presentation, Ken. I wish someone would put it on prime time tv for everyone to see! Well done.
LOL Fallingwater on the thumbnail.
Fallingwater is in disrepair. I thought it was perfect for the thumbnail. 😊
Fantastic! Very well said on all fronts-❤❤❤👏👏👏
We need to protect more and more buildings before our history is wiped off the earth
If you don't remember your past, you're doomed to repeat it...
If Le Corbusier had his way he would’ve flattened Haussmann’s Paris and replaced it with skyscrapers, quite insane.
That's a fascinating point! Le Corbusier's vision was indeed revolutionary, and while he brought many innovative ideas to the world of architecture, his concepts were sometimes at odds with traditional urban aesthetics. Haussmann's Paris is a masterpiece, and it's hard to imagine it replaced with modern skyscrapers. It's interesting to reflect on how different visions can shape or potentially reshape our urban landscapes. Thanks for sparking this conversation!
@@ThisHouse Plan Voisin in 1925. The plan was thankfully rejected.
There are times when it’s cost effective to start with the modified blue prints. At this time indoor toilets ,electricity can be provided.
I would not mind finding a nice blueprint of an old home and having it built from scratch, however, the materials would make it so it would not be the same.
Good show and ideals
We bought a modest home that is over 100 years old. Large windows. river rock porch, and painted wood floors. It had been renovated in the 1960s and left mostly intact. The first time I walked in our house, I felt it was home and I asked God if we could have it.
What I appreciate about our old home is how well suited it is to modern living. Flat screen televisions, laptops, and smaller audio components fit perfectly into a 100 year old evironment. The minimalist and transitory lifestyle of the younger generations is a perfect fit for the smaller craftsmans/bungalows of the 1920s. During the lockdown period I was grateful for large windows circulating air, 9 foot ceilings, our inset front porch, and large backyard. Most of our older neighborhoods are very walkable as well and are located near city center.
That noted, our community has streets of modest homes built in the early parts of the last century, and the community is committed to the preservation of its historic district's homes/properties and commercial buildings. Our state (Southern California) has mandated building ADUs on the smallest single family lots possible, and has mandated "low income housing," often in the form of new 80 to 120 unit apartment complex developments. My hope is that homes like ours will persist and be cared for until the next generation--our kids--become their stewards and caretakers. 😊
I love this. An excellent video. Thanks so much for detailing all of the progress in architectural preservation.
My own personal "favourite" historical place would be Parkwood Estates here in my home town of Oshawa Ontario.
Yes it matters
Good one Ken!
Well done, Ken. One of the most important contributions to preservation is to instill awe, wonder and respect for this in our children. That means immersing them in it through field trips around their own hometowns and teaching that captivates. Additionally, their eyes need training via art classes. We have turned out 2 generations of people who see yet are blind to beauty, captured by fast fixes like Wayfair and Magnolia!
With the destruction of so many beautiful historic private and public gems in New York city alone between 1940 to the mid 60s it was the reason that old buildings must be saved.
It is wonderful to see the architect from the past. In Dallas Tx the old are taken down if new buildings built in the same spots. The find older areas you need to go east to a deep elum area of one or two story buildings.
My town knocked down the first school house of a small garden house development.
Very nicely done!
Sure as long as saving it doesn’t put peoples life at risk because of how far gone the house is
❤
They need to be saved!!
Agreed. Old houses are a great fit for the younger generations' minimalist and transitory lifestyles.
Excellent presentation!
Absolutely not!
100 % ! ! !
I have an ambitious project and have chosen Cairo Illinois to be the possible destination.
In doing so, I have learned of The Historic District of Cairo Illinois. It is an amazing place with a lot of great buildings and history.
The group within Cairo is very passionate about persevering these historical sights.
I encourage you to make a video of this area and bring attention to what they are doing. It is a very positive, ambitious, and noble undertaking.
Let me know if you are interested, and I will see if they would be interested in giving you a tour of all of their historic sights. It's amazing.
I'm new to your channel so maybe you have already been there. If so, please share a link I would be interested in seeing the video :).
Take care,
Caleb
Short answer: Yes.
Love this question. Why? There is no easy answer. This question may always exist in architecture. Another way to ask it is "Which is greater? The immovable object or the unstoppable force". Both are tangible and intangible. Same with buildings. I feel everyone will know in their hearts when it is time to pull a building down. I feel buildings where multiple deaths occurred should be demolished to refresh in the open air for a long while. For example, WW2 buildings (you know the ones I'm speaking of).