Historic Designation for 180-Year-Old Pittsburgh House Draws Opposition

Strategic Insights -

A 180-year-old Greek revival house in Pittsburgh's Lawrenceville neighborhood is set to be designated a historic landmark, despite opposition from its present owners, Eric and Beth Rupert. The house, known as the Ewalt House, was inherited by Eric Rupert when his father died in 2016. The Ruperts had planned to demolish the house and sell the property to a developer, but an architect based in Lawrenceville, Keith Cochran, nominated the house for designation as a landmark on behalf of the neighborhood preservation group Lawrenceville Stakeholders. The house has significant historical value, with its interior being described as "unbelievable" by Cochran. However, Beth Rupert opposes the designation, citing the original owner Samuel Ewalt's history as a slaveowner and the house's need for restoration, which she claims would be a "money pit." The issue has sparked a debate between preservationists and developers, with Councilwoman Deborah Gross saying that she is sympathetic to the owners' desire to sell the property but also must weigh the impact on the neighborhood's character.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Ewalt House, a 180-year-old Greek revival house in Pittsburgh's Lawrenceville neighborhood, is set to be designated a historic landmark.
  • The house's present owners, Eric and Beth Rupert, oppose the designation, citing the original owner Samuel Ewalt's history as a slaveowner and the need for restoration, which they claim would be costly.
  • Keith Cochran, an architect based in Lawrenceville, nominated the house for designation on behalf of the neighborhood preservation group Lawrenceville Stakeholders, citing its historical value and significant interior features.
  • The city's Historic Review Commission and Planning Commission recommended the designation, but it requires approval from six City Council members.
  • Councilwoman Deborah Gross and five other council members voted to delay a vote on the matter, effectively approving the designation.
  • The Ruperts have listed the property for sale at $186,500 and claim that the designation will "financially destroy" their family.
  • Henry Ewalt, 80, a relative of Samuel Ewalt, said that he is in favor of the historic designation but acknowledges the controversy surrounding the issue.

Statistics:

  • The Ewalt House is 180 years old.
  • The house was inherited by Eric Rupert when his father died in 2016.
  • The Ruperts had listed the property for sale at $186,500.
  • The city's Historic Review Commission and Planning Commission recommended the designation.
  • Six City Council members are required to approve the designation.
  • Only six council members are needed to approve the designation.
  • The property is listed as 4611 Eden Way on the Allegheny County Real Estate website.

Sources:

  • The Tribune-Review (Greensburg, Pa.)
  • University of Pittsburgh database of slaveholders in the region
  • Allegheny County Real Estate website
  • Lawrenceville Stakeholders neighborhood preservation group
  • City of Pittsburgh Historic Review Commission and Planning Commission
  • City Council members' statements at the meeting
  • Keith Cochran's statement
  • Beth Rupert's statement
  • Henry Ewalt's statement