Being a historic preservation professional married to the director of a creative agency, I am constantly challenged to appreciate the value of new things as much as I love the past. The incredible ways in which new media can transform preservation advocacy have opened my eyes, and it is critical that preservation groups embrace these new platforms. Social media is no longer an option for businesses; it's simply "just the way things are." Through social media, I have discovered a number of wonderful preservation advocacy groups and campaigns that I had never known about before. Coincidentally, three items have recently popped up in my feed, and they all have something in common: They are offering free houses to the first person who can pick them up and move them.
Saving Historic Homes One Move at a Time
Preservation Arlington is helping to promote an adorable Sears kit bungalow dating from 1926. This Wellington model Sears home, originally priced at $1,998, is now available for free, with the condition of moving the house to a new location. The homeowner is offering this historic property instead of demolishing it. The Sears bungalows are part of Arlington's historic heritage, featuring great proportions, hard-to-find craftsmanship, and attention to detail. The goal is to find a new place where this house can be cherished and utilized.
Photo courtesy of Preservation Arlington.
Relocating a Piece of History
For those who appreciate the charm of an old log cabin, here's an opportunity to own one dating back to 1840. This true and authentic hand-hewn Log Cabin, built in a Dog-Trot design, is available for $40,000. Located near the FDR & Warm Springs GA areas, the price includes the cabin only, but not the land. The buyer must arrange to move the cabin to a new location. This is a unique chance to own a piece of history and make it a part of your own story.
Photo courtesy of Keller Williams Realty.
A Free Queen Anne Beauty
If you've ever dreamt of owning a Queen Anne-style house, this is your chance. A c. 1885 Queen Anne-style house at 1818 Eastland Avenue in East Nashville is available for free, with the condition of moving it to another lot. Originally the Spout Spring School before being converted into a dwelling, this historic house is an East Nashville landmark. The current owner, March Egerton, has pulled a demolition permit but is willing to allow someone to relocate the house at no cost. Don't miss this window of opportunity to save a piece of history.
Photo courtesy of Historic Nashville.
Your Chance to Preserve History
These unique opportunities to own and preserve historic homes are rare. By moving these houses to new locations, you become part of their story and contribute to the preservation of our architectural heritage. If you're interested in any of these houses or want to learn more about how to move a house, watch the video below where I share in-depth research on the topic.
Remember, history is not just something to be admired from a distance; it can be lived and experienced. So, seize this opportunity to own a piece of history and create a new chapter in these beautiful houses' lives.
Elizabeth Finkelstein is the founder of CIRCA and a practicing writer, architectural historian, and preservation consultant based in Brooklyn, NY. She has a deep love for historic houses and is passionate about finding her perfect "Thanksgiving house" with her husband and their beagle, Banjo.
