update 09-29-2009
The owner of the Helm and Newman Homes, One By One Leadership, presented to the Historic Preservation Commission their new plan to move forward with restoration of both homes. They also provided a letter of intent for a $500,000 loan from the Housing Authority to help make it possible.
While the jury is still out on the Newman home, the damage is not as severe as some had feared. Or better put – there is a good possibility it could be saved. The roof collapsed in the fire mentioned below, but the 1st floor, 2nd floor and walls maintained much of their integrity.
Friday night September 18th ABC 30 reported that the fire destroyed historic home at L Street and Divisadero in downtown Fresno.
Fresno Fire Department has not yet discovered the cause of the blaze.
Newman Home at 1743 L Street was built in 1911 in a Colonial Revival style. It is on the Local Register of Historic Resources. Via Historic Fresno website.
L Street streetscape. Helm home, Newman home, and Black/Long home
historic Newman Home porch detail
