Historic Building Demolition Described As 'Very Disappointing'

DARIEN, IL – A Darien resident on Monday described the planned demolition of Society of Mount Carmel's "very disappointing."

Bill Lyons, who has lived in Darien for nearly a half-century, spoke at a City Council meeting about his concern.

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In mid-July, the city granted a demolition permit to the Society of Mount Carmel a day after the Catholic order requested it, he said.

Only a few days before, Lyons said, the neighboring but separate Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church informed its parishioners of the pending teardown.

Built in the early 1900s, the White House, also known as Castle Eden, is on the grounds of the Carmelite Spiritual Center in Darien.

In his comments, Lyons said he was sure the Carmelites met all the city's demolition requirements.

"On the other hand, it is very disappointing that this local landmark and important building is scheduled to be demolished," he said. "It is also equally disappointing that the Carmelites did not advise and communicate to the local community of the upcoming demolition and the city of Darien did not notify our residents until the permit was issued."

He continued, "If the Carmelites would not communicate, then the city of Darien could and should have."

Lyons pointed to other towns that have waiting periods and notice requirements for the demolition of larger and older buildings, which he suggested Darien consider.

Last week, the Carmelites issued a statement defending their decision on the building.

Because Darien is relatively young, the issue of historic buildings rarely comes up.

But it's a regular topic in older towns. For instance, Hinsdale created financial incentives to build rear additions to homes while keeping the historic character.

By contrast, Hinsdale has a slower, more involved process for reviewing proposals to demolish historic houses.