!9946 Dresden is a somewhat symbolic structure to many residents of Detroit, as well as many people around the world. While this abandoned structure might not have appeared to be anything more than another neglected piece of Detroit property to most, it holds significant meaning to a handful of people. Among those people you will find Marshall Mathers, AKA Eminem, AKA Slim Shady. This house was one of several that he resided in throughout his childhood. Understandably, this house meant more to him than any of the others. This house is where a lot of things started to take off regarding Eminem's journey toward his career, including meeting his late friend Proof on the porch steps, who introduced him to the rap battles that started everything. A picture of the house is featured on two of Eminem's albums, the MMLP and the MMLP2, and the house is also featured on several Eminem T-shirts, as well as on the new Marvel comic book cover with Iron Man. Also, many references to the house can be found in several of his songs, including "Move On", "Doody", "Evil Twin" and others. The house also makes a presence in his new "Survival" video.

A dedicated woman is currently attempting to purchase the home and fix it up, and eventually move on to repairing other properties on the street. However, the Michigan Land Bank stated that many of the houses on Dresden are a hazard and will be demolished, including the 19946 home. The bank did not provide her with an estimation of when the houses were set to be demolished. If the whole street can not be saved, this one house should at least be spared. This house is a significant piece of hip hop history, the demolition of which would be a crime to Detroit residents, as well as several fans all over the world. 

If we truly wanted to, we could use our passion for the city as well as our appreciation for Marshall Mather’s story to save the home from demolition so the home can be repaired and continue standing as a symbol of hope. Em has proudly represented the city,  it’s time that we proudly represent him, as well as ourselves. This isn’t just about Eminem. This is about Detroit, and how Eminem constantly finds inspiration in the rubble and ash of the city, and people all around the world find inspiration and love for the city through him.  Someone has to care. Because if we don’t, who will? This petition is our attempt to reach out to the handful of other Detroit residents, as well as any other worldwide fans who care. On the MMLP2 Cd you will find the Latin quote, “Speramus Meliora Resurgent Cineribus”, which in English roughly translates to, “We hope for better things; we hope it rises from the ashes.” 19946 Dresden seems like the perfect place to start.