Historic preservation champion Oscar Beisert explains the cultural value of protecting Philly’s industrial heritage and why we should save “Church Row”

Philadelphia lacks a clear vision for historic preservation, leaving the protocols in place cumbersome and largely ineffective. Contributor Oscar Beisert believes it’s time to rethink our approach with solutions that increase the legal protection of historic buildings while accommodating new development

Is there a preservation crisis in Philadelphia? Hidden City contributor Oscar Beisert says yes and presents the city’s recent track record of demolishing historic resources in this startling essay

With little consideration or consternation, the last remaining facility of Philadelphia’s own Whitman’s Chocolates has been approved for demolition. Contributor Oscar Beisert has the history of the famous confectioner’s production site at 5th and Race and the details on how buildings protected in historic districts can sometimes be hastily brushed aside

Philadelphia’s stock of history-rich architecture is in jeopardy, and the time for proactive preservation reform within city government is now. Tireless advocates like Hidden City contributor Oscar Beisert, who goes before the Historical Commission next Tuesday with 4 nomination applications, including St. Laurentius Church, are the driving force behind getting buildings protected these days. Beisert shares his thoughts and perspective on the need to invest in our remaining architectural heritage with this passionate personal essay

To Hidden City contributor Oscar Beisart, the 100-year old Metropolitan Garage in Strawberry Mansion is as unique as it it is oddly charming. Although demolition permits have already been issued, Beisert thinks that a bold reuse of the building just might be the kind of creative investment the neighborhood needs

Kensington was once home to generations of Presbyterians and their houses of worship peppered the neighborhood. One of the denomination’s oldest surviving churches in the area was just put up for sale after being used as a building supply warehouse since the 1950s. Oscar Beisert digs deep into the former lives of Second Associate Presbyterian and unearths a strong case for preservation

Big development plans are in motion for the former site of J.T. Riley Lumberyard on East Girard Avenue. A leader of the lumber industry for over a century, the recently closed location in Northern Liberties-Fishtown will soon give way to modern apartments and retail space