The Webster Station area is currently booming with new construction as well as the redevelopment of historic structures.
But according to multiple sources, one of the oldest buildings in the neighborhood is in danger of being demolished.
Historic preservationist Andrew Hershner reports that the St. Joseph School at Second and Madison Streets is in jeopardy of being razed for a new community center. According to a church statement, a “final farewell” to the building was held on Sunday, November 17 “as the church makes way for a new parish center.”
The 1876 structure (included in our recent article about Dayton Catholic Church history) was formerly the St. Joseph Boys’ School and was later occupied for many years by Miami-Jacobs Junior College.
Despite its rich history, the building does pose some challenges. Both interior and exterior have undergone many alterations over the years, and the structure has been stripped of its cornice and other details. The interior was also modified considerably by Miami-Jacobs. This makes it more difficult to acquire tax credits for rehabilitation.
We reached out to Preservation Dayton for comment and they provided the following statement:
“Last week PDI and the city of Dayton have asked for a discussion with Father Anthony and parish leaders to see if renovating the historic portion of the school for the parish center and demolishing the newer addition for parking could be a more cost effective way for the parish to meet its goals.”
Hershner added that “any support and help reaching out to the church would be appreciated.”
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