Property Revival in Fells Point

(Fells Point Rehab Sourcebook, UB Archives)


The current charm and scenery of Fells Point attracts visitors from near and far each year. The historic buildings and cobblestone streets remind visitors of the early years in Baltimore's development. However, this approach to Fells Point is a relatively recent view. In the past 30 years historic preservation efforts have revived Fells Point and its physical appearance. The gentrification of Fells Point and the surrounding areas draws a strong contrast to the view of the area in the 1960's. During this time, Fells Point was struggling with trash cleanup, poverty, and decrepit buildings. In fact, many of the reports in the SCAR collection indicate that Fells Point met the federal definition of a devastated urban area, another phrase for a slum. These problems aided the argument for a road through Fell's Point.

The road fight garnered enormous help from preservation efforts in Fells Point. A local SCAR supporter named Robert Eney developed a source book to help classify and revive the historic buildings in Fells Point. He showed the intrinsic value and detail of the architecture in these buildings. This book encouraged local residents to take pride in their homes and neighborhoods. It also showed the City of Baltimore that Fells Point was a viable community with historic potential. This effort aided the push for a federally recognized historic district.



NOTE: I recently posted a main blog image. This image is a scan of one of the bumper stickers handed out during the road fight.