demolition of historic building

Denied Demolition of Geneva's 1840s Blacksmith Shop, Owner Appeals to Geneva City Council

On January 12, 2026, the owner of one of the oldest industrial buildings in Geneva will appeal the denial of its demolition request.

Third Request for Demolition of Geneva's 1840s Blacksmith Shop

For the third time in seven years, the owner of the oldest industrial building in Geneva seeks its demolition.

Judge Barry House Fate Undetermined

Will this 1843 home in St. Charles soon become a parking lot?

What Does a Historic Plaque Really Mean?

If a building has a plaque with a name and date on it, is it a protected building? Not always.

Code Enforcement as a Tool to Prevent Demolition by Neglect

While often a last resort, enforcing a city’s building code is an effective tool for incentivizing an owner of a historic property to make it useful again.

Early Settlement Buildings of the Fox Valley

Are the early simple structures built in the Fox Valley significant?

2023: Blacksmith Shop/Mill Race Inn Saved from Demolition (again)

For the second time in five years, a demolition request for the former blacksmith shop/Mill Race Inn in Geneva was denied.