VANCOUVER – As Vancouver celebrates its 125th birthday, one of the city’s oldest buildings is facing its demise. Rundown and in need of extensive restoration, the home at 502 Alexander may not be standing much longer.
It cost just $1500 to build it 123 years ago, but saving and restoring Vancouver’s second oldest home will run a much higher bill, one the current owner can’t afford.
The house was built by a carpenter who became one of the city’s first architects.
In the early 1900’s, the area saw a bit of a decline, and just before WW1, two blocks in the vicinity of the house became part of Vancouver’s “red light” district.
Guibord says the house’s exterior has been very well preserved, so it is a shame the home is getting demolished.
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“It is kind of ironic that on this 125-year anniversary of the city, we’ll probably be losing the second oldest residence in this city.”
The house is currently owned by a non-profit organization that is planning to turn the area into temporary housing for women who are homeless.
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