Save the 1870’s Eberts House!
Up to this point, this series has dealt with existing historic buildings that have been damaged and lost their integrity through insensitive changes.
This week our series will highlight a historic building that is currently neglected, but with quick and decisive action from local leaders, could be brought to life again.
The City of Wyandotte recently acquired the 1872 John Eberts House at the south-west corner of Vinewood and 1st St.
It was here in 1872 that the newly married John Eberts brought his new bride to start their married life together.
Something that made this house special was that it was one of the first in Wyandotte to have a coal burning stove. Since there were so few of these in Wyandotte, Eberts had to purchase a carload of coal for winter use.
When friends and neighbors asked John to share his coal with them, quickly this one-time painter and decorator got into the coal business.
For the next several decades, first he and then his sons would lead the family company, that became a leading supplier of coal, cement, and other building products in Wyandotte. In future weeks we will discuss the areas where Eberts various business enterprises were located as the debate over preservation of his house unfolds.
But let us digress for a moment to discuss the work of German architectural theorist Gottfried Semper. In 1851, just a few years after Eberts was born, Semper published his seminal work, The Four Elements of Architecture.
In it he discussed the origins of architecture and identified four elements, with the most important of these for our story being the hearth.
This book published three years before the Eurkea Iron & Steel Works and the Village of Wyandotte were founded, would have an interesting meaning in 1872 when Eberts installed one of the first coal burning stoves in Wyandotte.
Historically, the hearth was one of the most important features in a house, especially in a country house. The hearth provided warmth, was a place to cook, and was where the family would gather together.
Eberts coal burning stove effectively replaced the hearth. And because of his innovation, Eberts would be handsomely rewarded. One local historian would later remember how “historic businesses have preserved traditions on the very doorstep of the newcomer” and would prominently list Eberts name.
Preservation of the Eberts House and legacy has not gone so well leading into our generation. Most recently the Lubaway family occupied this house with several children raised here who are prominent citizens of Wyandotte in their own respect today.
Insulbrick covers the original siding. This needs to be removed to reveal the original clapboard underneath. The interior undoubtedly needs substantial work too, but being sensitive to the historic finishing and features inside is important. Before ripping anything out or changing things, a professional historic preservation consultant should complete a building materials assessment report.
Now let’s say that Wyandotters show the leadership and vision that is necessary to bring this most historic building back to its former greatness. What good would this do for Wyandotte?
Historic preservation has been proven as a way to protect property value, give a sense of place to neighborhoods and cities, and make these places attractive places to live and visit. The economic benefits of preserving the Eberts House are profound, because one can imagine after seeing the dramatic restoration of this building to its former glory, others will no doubt be inspired to do the same with their houses as well.
And, remember, Wyandotte is the second oldest city in Wayne County behind Detroit and one of the oldest cities in Michigan. So leaders and residents should feel pride and take responsibility to preserve and celebrate the heritage of this unique and special place that we call home.
As published in the Downriver Review.