Drugstores: A Success Story in Mishawaka
IndianaThe Threat
In 1999 CVS/pharmacy purchased property on the northwest corner of the Lincolnway and Cedar Street intersection in Mishawaka, Indiana with the intention of demolishing the existing structures and building a stand-alone drugstore.
The neighborhood has a rich, intact architectural history that was seriously threatened by the drugstore proposal. Three of the homes targeted for demolition, the Herzog House, the Hollister House and a Colonial Revival house, range in construction dates from 1888 to 1930; all three are contributing buildings to the Beiger Historic District, which is eligible for listing to the National Register of Historic Places
The Preservation Effort
Local citizens immediately expressed their opposition to the proposal and formed an ad-hoc group committed to preserving the houses. Concerned about the loss of the buildings, the Mishawaka Historic Preservation Commission voted in January 2000 to give interim protection to the three properties, a right granted under its authority to properly consider buildings for historic designation.
Three owners hoping to sell their homes to the developer filed suit against the commission in February, challenging the constitutionality of the interim protection order and the proposed historic district designation. The National Trust for Historic Preservation and the Historic Landmarks Foundation of Indiana jointly filed an amicus brief in the case. The lawsuit subsequently remained dormant for an extended period of time.
The Result
The case was ultimately dismissed. The corporation ultimately withdrew its proposal, as it did not meet the requirements of the local planning ordinance. The long-term fate of several of the houses appears more secure; they have since been purchased by preservation minded citizens. Strong local organization allowed an opportunity for the Historic Landmarks Foundation and the National Trust to act in partnership with the local group -- assuring a strong, unified front.
For more information contact:
Historic Landmarks Foundation of Indiana
Northern Regional Office
219-232-4534
