SAVING THE 1886 HOUSE

 




The 1886 House, a venerable dwelling in SW Portland’s Lair Hill neighborhood, was one step away from demolition when preservationist Clem Ogilby got a brilliant idea. Rather than destroy it, why not float it? After months of negotiations and planning, the way was “paved” for the approx. 1,900 square foot structure to be transported by truck, crane and tugboat from Lair Hill to a moorage in the Multnomah Channel, possibly making it the first historic structure in Portland to be saved by the river. Located near the Sauvie Island Wildlife Area, the home has undergone an extensive eco-friendly and historically sensitive renovation.

Czechoslovakian immigrants occupied the two-story home, which was built in 1886, for several decades. According to Ogilby, the home is a perfect example of vernacular 20th century architecture built for Portland’s growing working class. To destroy it, would have meant destroying the building’s historic significance to the community as well as putting 20 tons of old-growth fir into the landfill. But, “moving the building was no walk in the park,” he admits.

 “First we had to dismantle the roof of the structure, navigating the home along city streets to the Willamette Park boat ramp, then lift it onto a floating foundation with a 165-ton crane. And that was just the first part of its journey,” Ogilby said. “Then we had to tow it to its moorage in the Multnomah Channel near the Sauvie’s Island Bridge.” “Moorage owners Joe and Shirley Ashton were very accommodating and supportive of our efforts,” he noted.

 The relocation, Ogilby pointed out, was facilitated by staff from the City of Portland Bureau of Parks and Recreation, as well as by the Corbett-Terwilliger-Lair Hill Neighborhood Association. “They were instrumental in the process and affirmed their commitment to preserving this historic element of Portland through its architecture.”

Currently, the home is undergoing an extensive renovation that adheres to strict historic and eco-friendly building guidelines, including a tankless water heating system, non-toxic finishes, reclaimed architectural details, and some added features like skylights. “We want to be historically sensitive and ecologically conscious with our choices here,” He said, “Choices that will make this not merely the only floating historic home in Portland, but will make this a remarkable renovation.” The 1886 home is available for sale and welcomes anyone interested in the exceptional opportunity of owning this home and helping to add the finishing touches to the renovation process. “It truly is a unique, historic property and a unique way of life combined.”

 




Build it Green Home Tour 2005


For more information contact:
Clement R. Ogilby
Building Preservation & Relocation Specialist
8316 N. Lombard St. PMB #405
Portland, OR  97203
503-572-5323
ogilby@oldhouseworld.com