The Redman-Hirahara House, sitting in a far-flung field in the outskirts of Watsonville, is at once a beloved historical resource and an object of scorn. The 128-year-old structure tells the story of Watsonville’s agricultural and immigrant roots, and as such has a group of tenacious clingers-on who believe it can be salvaged and restored.
But the house has languished unmaintained for nearly four decades, with no tenants save for the wildlife that undoubtedly takes refuge there. Many therefore call it an eyesore and have been clamoring for its removal.
On Tuesday morning, the Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors will make a decision that could allow that to happen…