Boynton Beach committee pushes for preservation of Andrews House as public museum

The Historic Resources Preservation Board (HRPB) meeting held on January 13, 2025, in Boynton Beach, Florida, focused on the preservation of the Andrews House, a significant historical structure in the area. The meeting began with Tom Moore, vice chair of the citizen committee formed to save the Andrews House, presenting a passionate case for its preservation and relocation.

Moore emphasized the house's excellent condition and historical value, recalling his father's involvement in its renovation two decades ago. He described the unique Dade County pine used in the house's construction, noting its durability and resistance to termites. He highlighted the unanimous support from both the city commission and the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) for moving the house to a new location on Ocean Avenue, where it could serve as a cultural asset amid ongoing downtown revitalization efforts.

Moore made three specific requests to the board: to recommend that ownership of the Andrews House be transferred to the CRA or the city, to support its relocation next to the Magnuson House on Ocean Avenue, and to advocate for its repurposing for public use rather than residential or office space. He envisioned the house as a venue for community engagement, showcasing Boynton Beach's history and potentially housing a coffee shop or gift shop to attract visitors.

Following Moore's presentation, Ben Lowe, a professional historian and professor at Florida Atlantic University, echoed the need for preservation efforts in Boynton Beach. He expressed concern over the loss of historical buildings and called for a new survey of the city's historic structures. Lowe suggested that hiring a dedicated historic planner could enhance the effectiveness of preservation initiatives and ensure better follow-up on board discussions.

The meeting underscored the community's commitment to preserving the Andrews House as a vital piece of Boynton Beach's heritage. The board's discussions reflected a shared vision for creating a heritage cluster downtown, where residents and visitors could appreciate the city's history while enjoying modern amenities. The next steps will involve formal recommendations to the city commission based on the board's discussions, aiming to secure the future of the Andrews House as a cherished community resource.