In the upcoming weeks, the Essex village will likely see a nearly 200-year-old house in the epicenter of town, Pratt Street, knocked down. Most will ask, “How can this happen?” Many will be surprised to learn that it is permissible to knock down historic structures because Essex Village does not currently have historic protections. Wait, What?

I am a relative newcomer to town, eight years, but I love this town. I know there have been previous attempts at preservation. However, with the Pratt Street knockdown, now is the time for Essex to revisit and establish historic planning options. We are stewards of a very special community and should do our very best to keep it that way.

Joan Sauvigne-Kirsch

Essex