For years, the original Willard Carpenter building sat vacant and deteriorated, its historic potential hidden beneath layers of neglect. When Catanese Realty purchased the property, they committed to a complete transformation—repairing, restoring, and revitalizing this architectural gem back to its former glory.
As the restoration work began, I was brought in to dust off my interior design skills and contribute to the vision. I helped develop conceptual designs, including paint colors and finishes that would honor the building's character while creating a modern, functional office space for Catanese Realty and other tenants. Their interior transformation was remarkable—what emerged was a beautifully updated workspace that blended historic charm with contemporary comfort.
But one important detail remained incomplete: the historic marker that identified this building as an Underground Railway Station. This wasn't just a plaque—it was a testament to the building's role in American history and the courage of those who sought freedom through its doors.
Restoring this marker required research and care. I spent time learning the proper techniques for cleaning and preserving a sign of this material and historical significance. After several hours of hands-on work—carefully painting, polishing, and bringing it back to life—the marker was transformed. It now gleams in front of the building's updated exterior, easily readable from the street and impossible to miss.
The restored historic marker does more than complement the building's new look. It tells a story. It reminds everyone who passes by that this structure is part of our shared heritage, and that preservation work honors both the past and the future.
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