Part 9/12:
The End of an Era and Preservation Efforts
In many cases, historic homes were replaced by modern apartments or commercial buildings, often before preservation advocates could step in. The Pennsylvania Station’s demolition in New York, and similar losses nationwide, sparked a growing preservation movement—though many buildings still fell to bulldozers amidst the push for progress.
Notable exceptions include Villa Meisner and Greystone Hall, which have been maintained as historic sites, museums, or event venues, underscoring their enduring cultural value.
Scandal, Love, and the Human Stories
Beyond architecture, many of these mansions are intertwined with tales of scandal, romance, and tragedy: