Historic Missouri Home Faces Demolition Amidst Community Outcry
The Marquitz-Garesche House, a historic landmark in Kirkwood, Missouri, is set to be demolished following a legal battle that ended unfavorably for preservationists. The home, built in 1858, was purchased by Harlan Sorkin, a health startup CEO, and his wife Annelle Sorkin, who initially intended to renovate it. However, they determined that renovation was not feasible due to safety concerns, modern living standard incompatibilities, and loss of historical integrity. Despite its landmark status, the Kirkwood Landmarks Commission could only defer, not deny, the demolition permit. This decision has sparked significant public outcry, with local residents, led by Erin Mariscal, gathering nearly 2,000 signatures on a petition to save the home. A lawsuit filed by residents to prevent the demolition was dismissed by Judge John Borbonus, allowing the demolition to proceed. 
