Is newer better?
I recently read an interesting statistic that “80% of houses in the United States have been built since 1940.” Translated to Schuyler County, I wonder if 80% of our homes have been been built since 1940?
Not having conducted a statistical review of every home in Schuyler County, this is difficult to prove. However, based on general observation, I’d ponder to guess that only about 30% of the homes in our rural area have been built since 1940.
Along with that assumption, I’d say that many people would take this statistic as affirmation of their opinion that we need more “new” houses in our rural communities.
I’m going out on a big limb and risking a ton of backlash to say, “Newer isn’t necessarily better.” From my viewpoint, that 80% statistic infers something special and unique about the architectural fabric of our small town. To me, it says that we have something very rare, something to be treasured! We have something that other small communities don’t—an amazing architectural history!
The pioneers who founded Rushville in the early 1800’s were impressed with its growth and dynamics. They saw great promise for the future of this town as the “New Eden.” What’s left of that vision? – Our historic architecture of today! All those “old” buildings and homes, they’re important! They are the single most visible symbol of our founders’ commitment to molding our little town into a successful, productive community.
That’s important, because not only does our historic architecture keep us connected with our past, it is also an important source of commerce, tourism, inspiration, and cultural insight. Today’s Rushville is an amazing community with many wonderful amenities – a modern fitness center, a wonderful aquatics park, a beautiful public park with a stellar 18-hole golf course, arts and cultural venues, a uniquely historic movie theater, wonderful schools and churches, and a brand new performance auditorium.
These are all fantastic components of our community that would make our historic founders very proud. However, where do we go from here? Let's not envision our community just 5 years, 15 years, or even 30 years from now – but, let’s envision it in the next 100 years and honor the important vision the founders had for us. Let’s honor their wisdom, ingenuity, and courage through our diligent care and concern for our historic architecture.
It's a valuable resource that could be lost very quickly. Much of our important historic architecture in Schuyler County is at a literal “tipping point” and is nearing a time of critical decision. Without a concentrated effort to focus on this architecture, there is a very strong likelihood that much of it will be demolished or left to deteriorate. And, it goes without saying, “Once it’s gone, it’s gone.”
Our only hope for saving these places is by creating a community of care that strives to protect and steward the future of our historic architecture. Will you join us in this journey?
With your ongoing support, we look forward to inspiring the longevity of our historic places!
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Schuyler Isley, President & Founder