MHDC releases statement on Sept. 14 fire in downtown Mobile
Oct 10th, 2023
Posted in: Press ReleaseMayorFire-RescueMobile Historic Development Commission
- October 10, 2023 -
MHDC releases statement on Sept. 14 fire in downtown Mobile
Mobile, Ala. — During its meeting on Oct. 2, the Mobile Historic Development Commission voted to release the following statement regarding the fire at 407 Dauphin Street that occurred on Sept. 14.
“The Mobile Historic Development Commission sadly notes the severe fire damage to an important historic structure in our historic downtown. The row house at 407 Dauphin Street was built in the 1840s and was part of a distinct ensemble of commercial buildings reminiscent of Mobile’s storied past. The fire damage to 407 Dauphin Street posed a danger to nearby residents in the Mattress Factory and to our historic and irreplaceable Cathedral-Basilica of the Immaculate Conception.
The MHDC applauds the men and women of the Mobile Fire and Rescue Department for their heroic efforts to contain and extinguish the blaze before it could spread to adjacent properties or cause personal injury or death. The original firewalls also performed their function of preventing the spread of the fire to adjacent buildings. And yet, this did not have to happen in the first place. The MHDC calls on all owners of vacant properties, especially those in the historic core of downtown Mobile, to embrace civic pride, properly maintain and monitor their properties, and swiftly transition them into active use for the benefit of all Mobilians and those who come to visit and enjoy our beautiful city.
Mobile’s built environment and architectural heritage are distinctive characteristics that help define our community, enhance our quality of life, and draw thousands of visitors each year to share in the appreciation of our unique history and culture. The MHDC remains committed to preserving our built environment and protecting it from demolition.”