Moving a House with Preservation in Mind

by Peter Paravalos

Overview

House moving has recently been pushed to the forefront of preservation efforts as an alternative to demolition. When the choice becomes to either move a historically significant building away from its original physical and cultural landscape, or see history torn down and buried away in our ever-growing landfills, relocation can be the preferred option. Aggressive residential and business developments have forced preservationists, historical commissions, and concerned citizens to act by moving historic homes in an effort to save them from destruction. What is involved in moving a house? Where does one begin? Most importantly, what will it cost? Moving a House with Preservation in Mind can be used as a reference book by anyone contemplating a house move, whether historic or non-historic, as they decide whether to undertake such a complex project. The book examines the process of moving a house step by step, from the planning stage through cost analysis, funding availability, moving options, and the physical move. A detailed case study illustrates the importance of house moving in preservation, and the final chapter provides briefer examples of several house moves across the U.S. and the various obstacles each encountered. Written by a structural engineer specializing in building relocation projects with a background and active role in historic preservation, Moving a House with Preservation in Mind uses clear text and insightful photographs to make technical issues easily accessible. Peter Paravalos explores a variety of move types, underscoring the important dos and don'ts that will help to make your project a success.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780759109575
Publisher:	Rowman & Littlefield Publishers, Inc.
Publication date:	05/25/2006
Series:	American Association for State and Local History
Edition description:	New Edition
Pages:	168
Product dimensions:	6.02(w) x 8.96(h) x 0.42(d)

About the Author

Peter Paravalos is a structural engineer with experience in design, inspection, assessment, restoration and rehabilitation of various historic, transportation and public works facilities. He has been involved in a number of building moves in and around Massachusetts. He currently resides in London, UK, where he is a member of the Camden History Society and a consultant for the History Channel.

Table of Contents

Chapter 1 Moving Houses, A History Lesson Chapter 2 Decision Making Chapter 3 The Moving Process, What's Involved Chapter 4 Historic Preservation and the Federal Government's Role in Funding Chapter 5 Historic House Moving Chapter 6 Choosing a Method for Moving Chapter 7 The Structural Mover's Role Chapter 8 The Economics of House Moving Chapter 9 A Case Study—Strawberry Banke Chapter 10 Moving by Example

Editorial Reviews

Paravalos offers a concise, thorough and thoughtful explanation of the factors involved with relocating a historic building. I recommend this book for anyone contemplating moving a historic house, as it clearly outlines all of the details related to undertaking this kind of large-scale project.

Joseph Cornish

This detailed and thoughtful guide to the history, practices, and considerations of house moving will help both property owners and preservation organizations needing to make informed decisions on a house move. Case examples from a variety of physical situations and regional locations describe 'last chance' moving of several exceptionally significant historic houses and use of 'best practices' in such cases.

Marcia Starkey

This is a long overdue, in-depth guide for any individual who is interested in the preservation and relocation of any structure

Jim Matyiko

Moving a House with Preservation in Mind is a very comprehensive and thorough reference guide to the history and techniques involved in preserving and relocating historical structures and other buildings. A must read book for preservationists, house movers, and other enthusiasts who have an interest in preserving and saving some of our most historic landmarks for future generations.

Mark Edwards