.jpg)
Nov. 25, 2024 Editor, The News-Gazette: On Nov. 20, HLF President Dee Joyce-Hayes wrote the VMI board of visitors. In that letter, she asked that VMI reconsider its decision to demolish two historic 19th century homes that form a part of the gracious entrance to VMI on Letcher Avenue. Demolition is part of a plan to expand the current alumni complex.
This will happen unless the city of Lexington and its citizens make a concerted effort to dissuade VMI of its folly. The two structures, Blair House (1870) and Archer House (1881), are featured in “The Architecture of Historic Lexington.” They are integral to the size and proportions of the historic structures on the opposite side of Letcher Avenue.
It is time that the Virginia Military Institute, as well as Washington and Lee University, understood that they are not just a Beacon on a Hill, but a part of a historic community with responsibilities to that community.
Please join Historic Lexington Foundation in its effort to save these historic Lexington structures. DON HASFURTHER Former HLF director
