A PLEA
So my plea is this: As South Florida continues its vertical climb, we should pause to consider the cost of this development not only in terms of quality of life issues, but also to our history, so much of which is embodied in historic buildings.
For an example of how preservation could work, consider the large expanses of restored neighborhoods that have added character and beauty to such cities as Savannah, Ga.; Charleston, S.C.; or the Center City section of Philadelphia.
Or, in Miami, cross the river from the Miami River Inn to the Lummus Park area on the northwest perimeter of downtown and walk along the south side of the 400 block of Northwest Fourth Street. You will see three wonderfully restored small homes, with their oolitic limestone chimneys and bay windows, and you will walk away elated by this rare preservation achievement.
But you will also regret what could have been in many other places.
Paul S. George, a history professor at Miami Dade College, frequently leads historic walking tours around South Florida.
