Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here! – 2 Corinthians 5:17
As Rebekah and I are now deeply invested in Tarboro’s historic district, I have more than a casual interest in what is happening – as well as not happening – in terms of ongoing restoration and renovation.
It helps that Max and I walk pretty much the entire span of the reported 45 blocks and 300 buildings almost every day, plus I ride my bike so there is not much that escapes our attention.
So Tuesday, walking back from having the few remaining hairs on my head sculpted by the most excellent Ginger Proctor, I grabbed a photograph of one of my favorite Main Street homes (above).
Then I cut across to Saint Andrew Street, where I noted some encouraging progress on a beautifully proportioned home that owns the potential to be one of Tarboro’s most imposing residences.
The house, situated just south of Baker Street, has recently changed owners. The new folk look to be making steady progress and I’d like to give them some encouragement and a well-deserved shout-out in this space.
In the first photograph of the “side-by-side” slider, you can see what the house looked like earlier this year. The second is the image I grabbed when I walked by Tuesday lunchtime. I have no idea what kind of timeline the new owners are imagining, but I for one am excited about what they are doing.
Grace and Dignity:
Then, as if not to be outdone, I have noted some promising signs of (maybe) potential work at the spectacular abandoned Victorian mansion on the corner of Saint Patrick and Saint John. There was a crew operating heavy equipment in the yard behind the house, the old unstable play set is being removed, and there have been hints of evidence of quiet activity for several weeks.
There is a unique and irreplicable dignity to these historic homes. They not only have stories to tell, but they have even more to contribute to the new story that is being written here in Tarboro.
I am praying more people will realize that a positive return on investment is more complex and more beautiful than mere dollar signs – $$ – and the way the numbers line up on a spreadsheet.
Fact is, Rebekah and I are already richer by far because we are part of this community. Why don’t you consider joining us here?
Peace – DEREK
