I've been fascinated by this building for a long time. Its original mission in life I do not know, but I surmise that it is one of many state-owned buildings in downtown Raleigh. It sits around the corner from my office, and despite its size you might pass it every day and never notice it.The windows and doors are boarded over and padlocked and I've never seen anyone going in or coming out. The only clue to its heritage is a block nested in among the bricks above this door bearing the inscription "1898". I can only assume that this is the year it was completed because the address is 220 N. Dawson St.It's possible that there are plans afoot to restore the place. I noticed a few days ago when walking past it that one of the many window unit air conditioners was running. That, however, is the only indication I've ever seen that anything at all goes on here. If the building is, in fact, owned by the state it's useful life is probably over. With the state budget in the shape it's in, there's little hope that the state will restore it. And sale to the private sector in this economy is probably a faint hope. The money it would take to bring it up to code would probably far outstrip the cost to buy it in the first place. So the most likely fate I see for 220 N. Dawson is that it will crumble in place until it becomes too much of a danger to passers by to allow it to stand any longer. At which point it will most likely fall victim to the wrecking ball and be replaced by something shiny and new.Such a shame.
Stumble This!
Posts
14 comments:
Interesting!
I am surprised that something that old could have the wiring to run a a/c unit. Would be interesting to know what exactly goes on in there.
Its a very stark photo - I like!
Nice photo....always makes me sad to see buildings in such a sad state.
Oh, what stories that building could tell.
http://www.wanderingwonderinggypsy.blogspot.com/
I think its Rob's house .. that looks like an R .. but in any case he needs to get in touch with those house makeover people ASAP
How interesting.
Great photo and I know there are stories behind that door.
maybe the ghosts were hot....
it's a shame to see old buildings so neglected. yet it happens everywhere, every day...
It really is a shame to see these old building crumble. We have a lot of those too here in Durham.
Happy WW!
JMom ~ Amoores.com
I'd rather see it renovated than torn down. But I'm not the boss.
Oh my! Does that read Bob Jones? Somehow, I don't think he would appreciate it.
What's behind the doors? Is that what makes them so fascinating...I think so! The age of these particular doors makes them doubly interesting. :)
Really cool looking bldg (and I have a certain affinity for graffiti) .... do I remember this bldg from a window pic you once posted??
Post a Comment