Being a perennial favorite on an annual top 10 list is usually a point
of pride. But for the
Divine Lorraine, the historic hotel at 699 N.
Broad Street, the distinction of being atop the
Preservation Alliance of Greater Philadelphia's
Endangered Properties List is nothing
to cheer about--yet. With several development projects beginning and then
falling through, this historic hotel is in danger of becoming extinct
along with nine others on the Preservation Alliance's eighth annual
list. Still, while the list may look like a rebuke of Philadelphia
developers, the Preservation Alliance looks at the list as a shining
example of the historic assets our city holds and the potential for
amazing future projects.
"There are examples in the tony Old City and in more impoverished
areas," says PAGP Director of Advocacy Ben Leech. "But what ties them
all together is that they all are or could be important neighborhood
landmarks."
With three new additions to the list, the Preservation Alliance decided
to focus this year on buildings like the Divine Lorraine, featuring
seven properties that have appeared in the past but still remain
underdeveloped. Luckily, most of the buildings that have been featured
have since been developed and the Preservation Alliance is working with
developers to continue that trend.
"The spirit of the list tries to balance between the optimistic view
that these are our future landmarks, our future neighborhood assets,"
says Leech, "and the view that there is no reason for these structures
to be in the condition they are in. We are so used to seeing them in the
condition they are in that it blinds us to the critical risks facing
them if they remain in this state. Let's celebrate what we have and also
let's do something to make sure they remain."
Others on the list are: Dilworth House, Germantown Town Hall, Henry Pierce House, Burk Mansion, Provident Mutual, Lynewood Hall, Laverock Hill Estate, Cruiser Olympia, and 109 Elfreth's Alley.
Source: Ben Leech, Preservation Alliance of Greater Philadelphia
Writer: John Steele