ForGENERATIONS to come Dear Readers,
If you're reading this, you probably have an interest in homes. And if you're interested in homes, you've definitely taken a slow drive along historic 8th St S and the historic Hawthorne neighborhood. And then slowly drove up the street again. And again. The historic homes of our town and how they've been preserved is something truly remarkable. A drive through the neighborhood transports you to a quiet, established subset, one you can't imagine is just a mile south of the booming construction of Block 9 and the growth of downtown Fargo. I can't tell you how many times I said out loud, "They don't make 'em like they used to," while touring through these historic homes. Certainly not to dismiss the beauty of new modern homes, but these circa-1900 homes have a special attention to detail in things that just aren't recreated anymore. Fireplaces framed in glass tiling, intricate stair railing carvings, built-in China cabinets in the dining room, installed stained glass pieces, clawfoot tubs...there's a charm to it all. When I was a little girl dreaming of a perfect dollhouse, these historic homes are what I envisioned. Beyond just being what dreams are made of, historic homes remind drivers passing by of the history and culture of our city. Whether subdued or dramatic and grand, these homes take us back to a different era of our history. I hope you'll enjoy joining us this month as we see how homeowners have transformed their historic homes. These homeowners beautifully balanced respect for the craftsmanship of the past while bringing in modern comforts (and up to code electrical boards!). Whether you live in a sparkling new build, a downtown apartment or a north Fargo rambler, it's hard to deny the beauty of the historic home district. Regardless of personal home taste, there's just something about the craftsmanship and true art behind each and every element. Something to be admired and preserved for generations to come.
Until next month,
ALEXANDRA MARTIN Editor