I’ve often marveled at the homes of Europe in that many are hundreds and hundreds of years old. Then I turn to to America and can’t help but wonder why we don’t come together more to preserve and save the beauties in the communities across this land.  I found this photo on flickr.

It is a beautiful old place and it has a wonderful feel to it. There is an alley behind the house which makes for great photography, and there’s even a rusty old hand water pump in the back. it is located directly across from Manton High School.

Update: In August, 2007 this house was demolished and turned into a blank lot. There is now only grass where this marvelous house once sat.

I can just picture how gorgeous the home once was. I picture a Christmas tree or Menorrah in the window, picnics in the summer with dogs barking and children laughing.  The idea that this once beautiful home is permanently gone is just heartbreaking.

It appears the biggest challenge for preservationists is money.  In 1998, Federal funding for the National Trust for Historic Preservation ended, leaving it to state and local governments, along with everyday citizens to find money to preserve gems like the one above that was ultimately demolished. The organization has a list of the 11 most endangered historic places, along with membership information.  I always believe that charity begins at home as well, so contact your local preservation society and see what you can do to help.