Six Catholic churches in Ohio’s largest city are beautiful old structures that probably could easily qualify for inclusion on the National Register of Historic Places. However, the Roman Catholic Diocese of Cleveland, which owns the old churches, doesn’t want them designated as landmarks of historic significance.
The church’s reasons are similar to the reasons expressed by the private owners of other old structures, including some in this community: The diocese fears placement of the six churches on the National Register of Historic Places will make the buildings more difficult to sell. Four of the six churches already have been closed as the diocese has reconfigured itself because of fewer priests and declining attendance because of population shifts. Those four churches already are on the market, and the other two may be closed.
Cleveland’s Landmarks Commission has recommended that the six churches be designated as historical city landmarks, which would give them some protection against demolition or structural changes. In a letter to the city, diocese finance officer John Maimon says he doesn’t approve of the landmark proposal.
The diocese is hardly the first owner of an older building to oppose designation as a historic landmark. While those of us who love history and appreciate the magnificent design and sturdy construction of older churches, we can certainly understand how placing restrictions on the old buildings could reduce their market value. While one would hope the old churches would not be demolished, considerable leeway must be given in allowing them to be extensively remodeled to be more conducive to non-church uses.
The Landmark Commission should drop plans to designate the churches as historical landmarks. It is an honor the diocese does not want.
