03/04/2021
This beautiful old house at 1665 Bannerman Road is one of the most significant historic properties in Leon County. But it is in critical danger of being demolished—RIGHT NOW. You can help save it.
Please contact the Leon County Commissioners (emails below). You can also get involved by contacting the Leon County planner who is reviewing the project. Ask to get on the list for project updates and have the opportunity to give public comment.
Leon County Commissioners: http://www2.leoncountyfl.gov/contact/
To get project updates contact Leon County planner, Nancy Garcia: [email protected]
The house was constructed in 1909 for Levi Scott, owner of the Boston-Florida To***co Company. When the bottom dropped out of the to***co market, it was converted to a diversified farm, including the dairy operations of the Leon County Milk Company. During the 1920s and 1930s, it was one of the most important agricultural operations in the State of Florida. Produce from this farm won dozens of awards, and was displayed in agricultural fairs across the country. Later it was sold to Circuit Judge, Victor Cawthon, who lived there for decades.
Last fall the property was purchased by the Ghazvini family, who are also the developers of Welaunee Plantation. The house, and all the gorgeous old live oak trees around it are slated to be demolished and replaced by a parking lot for a new Publix. The rest of the property will become a housing development.
The building has been determined eligible for the National Register of Historic Places. As such, the building is subject to certain procedures under the Leon County Historic Preservation Ordinance. Specifically, the property may not be demolished without first making application to the Tallahassee Trust.
Yesterday a contractor began removing portions of the roof without a permit. The portion being removed are old asbestos shingles that were installed back in the 1930s or 1940s. Although portions of the original shingle roof still remain underneath, the house is now much more vulnerable to water damage from rain. And again, this work is being done without a permit, and without following procedures in our local preservation ordinance.
There has been some talk of moving the house, but it would have to be cut in two to move it, and the costs runs into hundreds of thousands of dollars. It would be better to alter the project so that the Publix is moved slightly, and the house is preserved. A conservation easement could also be placed on the property, giving the Ghazvinis a significant tax benefit. But there is no indication there is any willingness to change the plans for the Publix parking lot.
We are losing so much of Old Tallahassee these days. Help save this important piece of our local heritage!
