In the heart of Mount Airy, a historic stone mansion built in the early 19th century stands at a crossroads. This L-shaped property, once the pride of bookbinder William Leibert, has witnessed nearly two centuries of Philadelphia's history. Now, its future hangs in the balance, raising questions about preservation, development, and the value we place on our past.
The Historic Leibert House
The Leibert House, with its Federal-style architecture, has a rich history. Built before Mount Airy became part of Philadelphia, it has served as a family home, an orphanage, and a residence for the elderly. However, time has taken its toll, and the building now faces an uncertain fate.
The Battle for Preservation
Preservationists like Oscar Beisert, director of the Keeping Society of Philadelphia, fear the worst. The city's Department of Licenses and Inspections (L&I) has deemed the building "imminently dangerous," citing various structural issues. While there are no immediate plans for demolition, the property's current owner, NewCourtland, a nonprofit affordable housing provider, has expressed interest in tearing it down to expand their facilities.
Navigating Preservation Laws
The situation highlights the complexities of preservation laws. While the Leibert House is now historically designated at the city level, this designation does not guarantee its survival. L&I and the historical commission lack the authority to force private owners to make repairs or prevent demolition. As Paul Steinke, executive director of the Preservation Alliance for Greater Philadelphia, puts it, "There's no preservation jail."
A Common, Yet Uncommon, Fate
Tearing down neglected historic properties is not unheard of in Philadelphia, but it is uncommon. The recent demolition of the 19th Street Baptist Church, designed by renowned architect Frank Furness, serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by preservationists. The removal of the Leibert House's front porch further underscores the fragility of these historic structures.
A Cautious Glimmer of Hope
Amidst the concerns, there is a glimmer of hope. Beisert, who nominated the building for historic designation, believes the property can be preserved if repaired. He argues that, as Philadelphia prepares to celebrate its 250th anniversary, preserving such buildings is crucial. "The 250 priorities are out of whack," he says, "restoring commercial buildings while these historic gems decay."
A Broader Perspective
The fate of the Leibert House is more than just a local concern. It reflects a broader conversation about the value we place on our historical heritage. As we look to the future, how do we balance development and progress with the preservation of our past? This is a question that Philadelphia, and indeed many cities, must grapple with.
Conclusion
The story of the Leibert House is a reminder that history is not just about the past; it's about the choices we make today. As we navigate the complexities of preservation, we must ask ourselves: What do we want our cities to remember, and what do we want them to forget?
