I’ve been keeping this one a secret for awhile now, but I just can’t hold it in any longer. I am so pleased to show you my newest historic preservation tax credit project in downtown Alexandria, Louisiana.
Isn’t she lovely? I’ve had a crush on this nineteenth-century Queen Anne cottage for awhile now. It was the steep pitch of the hipped roof that first caught my eye. Then, those shutters – a common sight in New Orleans, but a rarity here in downtown Alexandria, which, has lost over 80% of its historic structures in the past thirty years, the majority of them residences.
Located on what is now the edge of downtown, this little cottage managed to escape all known threats to historic structures: demolition, vandalism, re-muddling, interstate highways, and fire. I’m not quite sure how she made it to this point in such good shape and with nearly all of her original features, but I am so thankful she did. I’ve been known to drive by just to check up on her and make sure she’s doing okay.
Can you see her potential? Sure, she needs some TLC. But her bones are good. She’s sturdy and strong, made of virgin Louisiana cypress and pine, and built by the hands of local craftsmen skilled in their trade.
The more of her history I research, the more I’m learning to trust in my knowledge and instinct about the age of old houses and regional architectural trends. She’s reinforcing my love for Louisiana buildings and building my self-confidence.
This little cottage knows that life isn’t always easy or pretty. She’s seen better days. But she offers a picture of hope for the future. Hope that, because her foundation is strong and her walls are solid, good will still come from her.
She’s come along way, but her journey is just beginning. You’re invited you to follow along. I suspect she has a lot to teach us all.
Hunt & Gather Home 
Great pictures!! Especially love that porch railing. Look forward to hearing more about this project!
Thanks, Susie! Hard to believe most of the spindles are in place and all are still on site. Looking forward to putting the railing back in proper shape.
i’m excited for you! It is a beautiful building. It will be fun to watch it progress!
Thank you! Can’t wait for it to get started.
This house reminds me of the house in one of my favorite books The Little House. It always makes me teary-eyed.
I’m in love too. I will track it down and follow its progress.
Oooh, she’s beautiful! If I were closer, I’d come play with you… but, alas, I’ll have to watch the progress from afar. So happy for you, Megan! Thank you for rescuing this house. (So sorry I missed seeing you when I blew through town recently. Loved my time with your Mom, though!)
Thanks, Mrs. Susan! Glad you will be following along.It’s going to be a lot of fun!
Will you be relocating the house or will it remain on its current lot? I can’t wait to see the inside. 🙂
The house will remain on its current lot.We’ll be seeking a National Register nomination and moving a structure from its original location could make it ineligible for the Register. We also hope this project will encourage further rehabilitation on the block!