(This is interview was edited for clarity)
Jason Cregier (JC): Rockford is no different than many other long-standing U.S. cities. It is filled with rich history and architecture. In recent years, however, many of the historic buildings have been torn down.
Marcus Walsh is the president of Rockford Preservation Company, whose mission is to save and repurpose Rockford's historic architecture.
Marcus, thank you for joining us.
Marcus Walsh (MW): No problem.
(JC): What are some buildings people may be surprised about not receiving local landmark status?
(MW): I would say the Faust Hotel. I know people are confused because it has "landmark" in its name, but it does not yet have landmark status. The Woodruff House is another because it is in a historic district but also does not have local landmark status.
There are so many on this list.
(JC): With the buildings for which you seek local landmark status, is the thought process more reactive, or initiative-taking? Or both?
(MW): We are currently taking more of an initiative-taking stance. We feel like this way we will have more chances of recognizing proposed demolitions going forward. We are trying to get ahead of things before it gets to the 11th hour.
(JC): What would you say to someone who is in favor of buildings coming down to make way for economic growth in Rockford?
(MW): There have been people who mentioned that many of these buildings sit vacant and on the market and do not budge. So, I do get frustration. I have my own frustrations as well.
The money that was used to purchase the Briggs Mansion was less than what was being asked publicly. It is not like the building sat there without being questioned. It is just that they would not take the money or would not budge.
(JC): What are Preservation Rockford Company's feelings about repurposing these buildings?
(MW): We are for reuse, such as what happened with the Otis Homestead. The current and former owner of the Ottis Eddy property would like to reuse it as opposed to tearing it down.
Getting landmark status for these buildings helps them qualify for funding and tax credits for restoration efforts.
(JC): Marcus Walsh is the president of Preservation Rockford Company, which will discuss local landmark status for historic Rockford architecture on May 22 at Veterans Memorial Hall.
Marcus, thank you for joining us today.
(MW): Thank you.
Copy Edited by Eryn Lent
