Early dwelling survey in North Wheeling
Thanks to the Eastern Michigan University’s Historic Preservation program under the guidance of Prof. Dan Bonenberger, the early dwellings of North Wheeling are being re-evaluated. For the past two years, Bonenberger has worked with Wheeling Heritage and other partners to bring a group of historic preservation students to participate in a summer class that looks at Wheeling’s old buildings with new eyes.
Because of this project, Wheeling Heritage discovered the need to identify the earliest dwellings in our city. In 2016, we applied for a survey and planning grant through the State Historic Preservation Office, and we received the money to hire a consultant. That consultant will conduct an intensive level survey to identify the earliest extant dwellings in the North Wheeling neighborhood.
Like South Wheeling, much of North Wheeling was omitted from the historic district because it was considered less significant when compared to the grand houses located in the southern end of the neighborhood. The elaborate Queen Anne and Victorian homes between 7th and 9th streets attract the most attention when compared to the humble and plain housing of the workers located to the North.
After an RFQ process, the Eastern Michigan University’s Historic Preservation program was chosen to conduct the intensive level survey that will include a GIS project, public outreach, and the production of a report that will identify a potential district or multiple property nominations.
