In a heartening show of community spirit and effort, Gilbert’s historic Clare House, the city’s second-oldest building, has been given another chance at preservation, thanks to the collective actions of local businesses and residents. The building, a cornerstone of Gilbert’s architectural and social history, faced demolition to make way for the Bottled Blond nightclub. However, WAGS Capital, the developer, has extended the deadline for its preservation, giving hope to the local initiative spearheaded by HD SOUTH to save and relocate the building. This reprieve is a testament to the community’s resolve to protect its heritage, illustrating a successful collaboration between a developer and the community.
The #SaveTheClare campaign, driven by HD SOUTH, has been the focal point of fundraising efforts, accumulating over $25,000 towards the goal of $135,000 needed for the relocation of Clare House. This campaign received a significant boost from O.H.S.O Brewery’s Gilbert location, which held a fundraiser and a round-up event, demonstrating the strong bond and mutual support within the community. Madison Thompson from O.H.S.O highlighted the importance of preserving local history for future generations, emphasizing the role of community support and involvement in realizing such endeavors. This story is not just about saving a building but about reinforcing community bonds and shared values.
Looking ahead, the future of Clare House hinges on reaching the fundraising target. Should the efforts fall short, plans are in place to salvage parts of the historic building, ensuring its legacy lives on in some form. Yet, the broader implication of these efforts extends beyond the fate of one building. It serves as a rallying point for the community, demonstrating the power of collective action in preserving historical landmarks. This scenario underscores the importance of involving residents and local businesses in the stewardship of their city’s heritage, ensuring that history and progress can coexist harmoniously. The Clare House challenge has galvanized a community, setting a precedent for future preservation efforts and highlighting the critical role of public involvement in keeping history alive.
As the campaign to save Clare House continues, it’s a reminder of the values that bind the Gilbert community together. The preservation of Clare House is not just about saving a building; it’s about preserving a piece of Gilbert’s soul, ensuring that its history remains a living, breathing part of the community. The efforts of individuals, businesses, and organizations like HD SOUTH and O.H.S.O Brewery exemplify the spirit of collaboration and shared responsibility that defines Gilbert. This challenge serves as a blueprint for other communities facing similar dilemmas, showing that with unity, determination, and a sense of common heritage, even the most daunting challenges can be overcome.
Source: Aparna Sekhar, GSN Staff Writer – Gilbert Sun News
