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structure; 4. all storms replaced with aluminum; 5—rear, second -story and one west side window removed and replaced with glass blocks; 6. no original outbuildings remain, a contemporary hipped -roof (c.1955) sits immediately behind the main structure. American Foursquares are a very common structure in South Bend. In order for such a structure to merit landmark status architecturally, it seems reasonable that -it should be exemplary -- in unaltered condition -- in order to be a representative of its type. This structure does not fulfill that criteria. In addition, it is neither an unusual nor an innovative architectural example. The structure also fails to meet historical criteria. The structure was not the site of a significant historical event. It is not associated with the life of a person or persons significant in history, locally or otherwise (please see the house history included below). It is in no way a significant representative example of the area's development, culture -or heritage; its educational value is therefore minimal at best. It could be argued that 1606 East Ewing is "suitable for preservation." This is a lovely residence owned by people who exhibit justifiable pride in, and concern for, their home. They should be encouraged to continue caring for the structure and refurbishing it as they are currently doing. The criteria of suitability fits sixty percent of the building stock in the county. The HPC does not have the necessary staff to administer Local Landmark status for every "older" home in the county, nor does it seem practical to recommend to local government bodies more structures than can be conceivably be handled. The HPC should only recommend those structures that meet several designation criteria, in addition to being merely 'suitable;" historic designation should remain as a tool for the reservation of demonstrably significant structures. F. Holycross November, 1992 The Fisher House -- 1606 West Ewing Avenue Historical Development This American Foursquare house was constructed circa 1901. The property (Lot 2 in the Rum Village Heights Addition) was platted by Whitcomb and Keller in 1941. The property originally was part of an eighty acre farm owned by Adam Fisher; it can be found on the Portage Township map in Higgin's Historical Atlas of St. Joseph Countv (1875). Adam Fisher purchased this property in 1854 and had a farm house built on the site. He resided here with his wife, Hannah Fisher, and their family until his demise on the thirtieth day of July, 1894, at which time Hannah became the sole executrix and owner of the estate. Little biographical evidence remains concerning the lives of these people, a common problem in researching the lives of farmers and laborers. n September 25, 1896 Daniel Fisher and Cora B. Fisher (husband and wife) nd Hannah Fisher (widow) transferred the property to Frank Fisher. On anuary 29, 1901 Frank Fisher mortgaged the real estate to Ellen Ponto for a sum of $3000.00 in order to have the present structure built. It is 2