It looked like this in 2003. In 2004 the new owners had installed new siding and greatly improved the exterior look. It was light gray siding with new windows and doors and white trim. It was the nicest looking house on the block. On December 5, 2007, it was blue tagged. It joined the ranks of many others labeled as "registered vacant" in St. Paul.
The full story is unknown to me. Maybe the city was unable to get a response from the owner whose tax records show a California address. Maybe the owner paid to have the building removed. Maybe (I hope) the business to the west of the house bought the property to be used as a parking lot. Maybe . . .
At one point the windows were boarded because former tenants were found illegally entering the building to salvage their belongings. Two week ago the front yard was dug up and the steps and cement disrupted. No attempt was made to salvage the detailed dental molding of the fascia. It was the original from 1890. Even the siding, windows and doors could have been reclaimed by a "deconstruction" company. It didn't happen. The disturbed front yard was the sign that this building was going the way of so many registered vacant buildings. It's fate was sealed. The coffin only needed to be nailed.
Wednesday the registered vacant building above looked like this. Just 6 months and 12 days after it was condemned. I guess they gave credit for holidays to get to the extra 12 days.
To my dismay the house next door is now sporting a blue sign as well. St. Paul is becoming a veritable wasteland of registered vacant buildings! As of Monday, the 14th, there were 1993 buildings on the "hit" list. Some with history that will never be restored.
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