20 years ago, three-quarters of the houses on Muhammad Ali
Blvd. between 24th and 26th streets were vacant or abandoned shells. Now there
are only a few that remain uninhabited. Artists, musicians, retired librarians,
and other hard-working creative and resourceful individuals have poured their
time, energy, and passion into preserving the rich legacy of these historic
homes on Muhammad Ali Blvd. On this walking tour you will meet several of
the homeowners and hear firsthand their stories and the challenges along the
way in saving their buildings. Historian Tom Owen will be on hand to
share how the neighborhood has evolved over the past 155 years. You will be
able to enter the mansion discussed in the Filson’s May 21st program,
and view other houses on the block including the Bourgard School of Music, which
is currently being restored, and the Samuel Plato House.