City officials express outrage over demolition of historic Daniel Call House in Richmond

During a recent meeting of the Richmond City Commission of Architectural Review, members expressed deep concern over the recent demolition of the historic Daniel Call House on Gray Street, a structure dating back to the 1700s. The discussion highlighted frustrations regarding the lack of protections for older buildings in the city, particularly those not listed in the historic catalog.

Commissioner sentiments reflected a growing urgency to implement measures that would prevent similar demolitions in the future. One commissioner emphasized the need for a citywide demolition ordinance, which currently does not exist, to safeguard buildings of historical significance. The demolition of the Call House was cited as a clear example of "demolition by neglect," where the building was allowed to deteriorate before being torn down.

The commission acknowledged that while there are processes for nominating buildings for protection, community support is essential for these efforts to succeed. They discussed the importance of raising awareness and encouraging public involvement in preservation initiatives. The Cultural Heritage Stewardship Plan, currently under development, aims to address these issues by outlining objectives for better preservation practices in Richmond.

In addition to the Call House, the commission reviewed other buildings at risk, including the Second Baptist Church, which has faced multiple threats of demolition. While this church is currently protected within a local historic district, the commission noted that the city council had previously approved its demolition, underscoring the challenges faced in preservation efforts.

The meeting concluded with a consensus on the need for a comprehensive inventory of the city’s historic buildings, particularly in areas south of the river, where many significant structures remain unprotected. The commission plans to advocate for stronger preservation policies and engage the community in discussions about the importance of maintaining Richmond's architectural heritage.