Received some very horrible news to pass along. In a shockingly sad and disturbing turn of events, the historic Carmack House at 16th and Jefferson has been the victim of a professional “architectural theft” in which all of the historically and architecturally significant elements were stripped from the home. The find came as Nickel Bros House Moving entered the home with potential purchasers. Below find the full police report and photos of the destruction. For context on this home, see our original profile, interior photo set #1, interior photo set #2, exterior photos, and tidbit from Sabey on former owner Irena Jewdoschenko.

This disgusting act comes just as a nomination of the Carmack House had been submitted to the Landmarks Preservation Board. Since the property is within the boundary of the Providence Hospital Major Institution Master Plan, there must be considerable economic pressure on the Jewdoschenko Estate for demolishing and replacing the house. A Landmarks Preservation Board meeting to discuss the Carmack House was scheduled for February 18th (at which I was scheduled to speak in favor of the landmark nomination). With many of the significant elements now removed from the home, the chances of landmarking could be compromised. Hopfully not.

I find the timing of this “architectural theft” troubling, if not extremely suspicious. Up until a year ago, I lived right across the street from the Carmack House and I can tell you that this is a very busy intersection with a lot of foot traffic. Not only is there a constant stream of people walking by, but Providence Hospital next door has a considerable security presence. The house has been fenced up with clear “no trespassing” signs for years now. I find the idea of thieves stripping this home, at this intersection, at any time of day or night, and not being noticed, to be hard to swallow. Click on the images for higher resolution copies. [see also: Smashing History]

Mark from Historic Seattle stopped by the comments to remind us: “The loss of interior architectural features won’t help, but landmark designation depends primarily on exterior integrity and, in this case, historic/ social significance of the house, which are intact. There is still a very strong case for historic designation and everyone who cares about the Carmack House and neighborhood preservation in Seattle should support the nomination and let the Landmarks Preservation Board know it. The hearing is scheduled for April 1st at Seattle Municipal Tower, 40th Floor.” Well said. Thanks Mark.

Carmack House theft, police report. Page 1.  1/28/09

Carmack House theft, police report. Page 2.  1/28/09

Photos of Carmack House theft. Page 1.

Photos of Carmack House theft. Page 2.