A study of the origin and uses of the former Grasshopper shop at 2818 W. Eighth St. in Millcreek concludes that the building does not merit preservation on historical grounds.
The building is thought to have been a schoolhouse in 1865, but there is little documentation of its early history. Physical alterations through the years have eradicated almost all of its original character. And there are no accounts or diagrams of its original design to guide restoration, according to the historic resource survey by Angelique Bamberg, of Clio Consulting, Pittsburgh.
The “previous loss of architectural integrity and lack of documentation of the building’s early history as a school do not support a case for physical preservation on the grounds of historical significance,” Bamberg concluded in survey findings.
The conclusion was echoed by Millcreek Township General Authority Executive Director Matt Waldinger in a statement Tuesday.
“The report from an experienced and renowned preservation expert did not support preservation of 2818 W 8th in current form and stated it was impossible to associate the structure with any of Millcreek’s history,” Waldinger said.