Lewes family pushes demolition project for their home, historic value in question

LEWES, Del.- A family in Lewes is on a quest to see a demolition project on their home cross the finish line.

The Daisey family has owned their property on 331 Chestnut Street since 1960. They want to completely demolish the current property and rebuild. We’re told the goal is to create a new space and allow future generations to establish roots in the area.

We spoke with one of the children, Darryl Daisey, who told us back then they were one of few African American families that were homeowners in the predominately white neighborhood.

The family’s initial project request was denied by the Lewes Historic Preservation Architectural Review Commission (HPARC) back in December. The family appealed that decision to Lewes Board of Adjustments in April and must now prove the home is not a contributing property to Lewes’ historic district. “We believe its beneficial to the African American community in Lewes and the historic district because the house does not fit into the surrounding neighborhood. It’s old,” Darryl Daisey said.

“We also believe the project benefits Lewes in general because of the diversity aspect so it can continue to keep diverse families here which is the opposite direction of what’s been going on.”

The family encourages neighbors and the greater Lewes to come out to the next meeting on this effort.

Part II of the project proposal is scheduled for this Thursday, August 31st at the Rollins Community Center.