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20 <br />It is only sensible that, in compiling any of these documents, one would include the oldest <br />home in the county as a significant building. However, it is clear that when establishing the <br />historic designations of the park, the cabin was never considered a significant contributor to <br />any criteria cited. The principles of design are the necessary criteria, and the removal of an <br />anachronistic pioneer cabin would serve to strengthen its historic ties to Kessler’s <br />original plan. <br />The moving of the cabin can be allowed under general preservation principles. Referencing <br />page 17 of Talley’s report, it discusses the reasons the park meets the Historic Designated <br />Landscape definition. Two paragraphs address the designs by Herman H. Beyer and George <br />Kessler and their ties to the City Beautiful movement, ending with “The Historic Preservation <br />Commission of South Bend and St. Joseph County recommends the preservation treatment <br />for Leeper Park to be rehabilitation, which retains the landscape as it has evolved historically <br />by maintaining and repairing historic features, while allowing additions and alterations for <br />contemporary and future uses.” This references National Park Service Preservation Brief #36, <br />which states that rehabilitation projects allow for successful minor or major change. <br />SBVPA’s plans for the park include paths reminiscent of Kessler’s design. <br />Sensible Change