COA2026-078 520 South Main Street Meadow Conversion

Context

Certificate of Appropriateness COA2026-078 for Eric Jackson (Old Salem Museums and Gardens), original rear lot of the Gottlieb Schroeter House and Wash-Bake House, 520 South Main Street (Local Historic Landmark 11, Old Salem Historic District): converting about 2,373 square feet of maintained lawn to a managed herbaceous meadow, keeping the fences, mowed path and Black Walnut tree and avoiding ground disturbance because of archaeological remains. Michelle McCullough reported that the landmark designation focuses on the buildings and names no specific garden. Staff recommended approval. Linda Hobbs, a neighbor at 516 S. Main Street, spoke in opposition.

Status

Approved September 2, 2026 with an added condition that plantings be no taller than 3 feet before flower. The minutes list nine names under For (including Marilyn Little) and name Marilyn Little under Against, and do not list Vice-Chair W. Noah Reynolds, who seconded, so the exact tally is uncertain.

Log

• 2026-09-02 - Historic Resources Commission - Approved with a 3-foot-before-flower height condition; one neighbor opposed; vote record inconsistent.