Arthur Kirsch
Kirsch Land LLC
9 Hartley Road
Great Neck NY 11023

The Honorable Malik Evans, Mayor - City of Rochester
City Hall
30 Church Street
Rochester, New York 14614

The Honorable Members of the Rochester City Council
City Hall
30 Church Street
Rochester, New York 14614

The Lockwood-Alhart House holds immense historical significance and is integral to our community's heritage. As one of the oldest remaining homes within the city of Rochester and the last standing cobblestone structure within city limits, it serves as a gateway to our neighborhood and connects us to our city's rich history.

The house's origins date back to 1820 when it was initially a timber-framed home. The skilled craftsmanship of stone mason Alonzo Bradley transformed it into a remarkable cobblestone structure in 1835. Throughout its existence, this iconic house has witnessed crucial moments in Rochester's history, including the completion of the Erie Canal and the rise of the Abolitionist movement and the Underground Railroad.

Despite its undeniable historical significance, the Lockwood-Alhart House faces the threat of demolition. The neglect it has suffered over the years has left it in disrepair, and the current owner, Kirch Land LLC, has expressed intentions to bring the property into code compliance with the possibility of demolition in the future.

As concerned community members, we cannot stand idly by and allow this piece of our shared history to be lost forever. Preserving the Lockwood-Alhart House is not just an act of nostalgia but an investment in our future. Historic landmarks like this house enhance our neighborhood's identity, attract tourism, and foster economic development.

Therefore, we, the undersigned residents of Rochester and other concerned citizens, urgently appeal to you to reconsider the demolition plans for the Lockwood-Alhart Cobblestone House. We understand that the property may need renovations and restoration, and we are committed to assisting in any way possible to ensure its preservation.

Furthermore, we encourage open communication and collaboration between all stakeholders involved, including the owner, local authorities, and concerned community members. Together, we can explore grant opportunities, seek professional restoration advice, and raise awareness about the historical and cultural value of this exceptional building.

Finally, we ask that the property be placed on the Designated Buildings of Historic Value List for the City of Rochester.

Preserving the Lockwood-Alhart House is not just an issue for the Triangle neighborhood or the Beechwood neighborhood but a matter of pride and significance for all of Rochester. By coming together, we can find a solution that safeguards our heritage and enriches the lives of current and future generations.

We would like a meeting with you to discuss further steps in protecting the Lockwood-Alhart House. Your support in preserving this unique piece of history would be a beacon of hope for our community and a testament to your commitment to the city's cultural heritage.

Thank you for considering our appeal. We eagerly await your response and look forward to working together to secure the future of the Lockwood-Alhart Cobblestone House.