Highland Park neighborhood continues efforts to save historic “Little Villa”
Birmingham, Alabama – The fight to save a century-old historic home on Highland Avenue, known as the ‘Little Villa’, is persisting. First brought to public attention in December last year, developers have planned to demolish the house to make room for a new apartment complex. Nevertheless, the neighborhood association and local residents are making determined efforts to keep the historic Little Villa standing.
The Fight to Preserve History
The Birmingham Historical Society states that the Little Villa is among the last standing original houses on Highland Avenue. Hence, the society expresses hope that the ongoing efforts to save it will be successful. The house, built in the year 1923 during the peak of quality building in Birmingham, holds historical charm that could never be replicated.
Marjorie White, the director of the Birmingham Historical Society, has spoken highly of the neighborhood’s commitment to preserving the house. She expressed her pride in their ongoing campaign and wished that more grand homes on Highland Avenue were still present today.
Working Toward a Solution
Recently, a design review committee has decided to put the matter on hold. This decision was made to provide the developer and the neighborhood association with the chance to find a compromise.
Local Support and the Future of Little Villa
The support and dedication shown by the neighborhood and the local residents have been well-acknowledged and appreciated. They have started several endeavors to preserve the Little Villa and prevent it from being replaced by a modern apartment complex. It is through efforts like these that the aesthetic and historical value of neighborhoods are maintained and cherished.
The future of the Little Villa depends on the discussions and negotiations taking place between the developer and the neighborhood association. The hope is that a solution can be found which satisfies everyone while preserving the historical legacy of the Little Villa.
The strong public sentiment surrounding the preservation of the Little Villa reflects just how imperative it is for the community to preserve their local history, their connection with their roots, and the distinct character of their neighborhood.
Next Steps
The design review committee, the developer, and the neighborhood association are set to resume discussions soon. Until then, the community’s fight to save the Little Villa stands as a testament to the value of historical preservation and the power of local action.
End Note
Saving the Little Villa is a significant move for Birmingham’s historical preservation. Such efforts are crucial in preserving the character and identity of cities like Birmingham. The saga of the Little Villa serves as a reminder of the need for local involvement in community affairs, the value of historical preservation, and the vibrancy that such structures bring to local neighborhoods.
Author: STAFF HERE BIRMINGHAM WRITER
The BIRMINGHAM STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBirmingham.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Birmingham, Jefferson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Sidewalk Film Festival, Sloss Music & Arts Festival, Magic City Classic, and civil rights commemorations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Birmingham Business Alliance and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as UAB Medicine, Regions Bank, and Encompass Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREHuntsville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
