Proposed Fate of 1926 Duluth Church Raises Concern

DULUTH, Minn. (AP) - A Duluth church built before the Great Depression is for sale and might be demolished, putting preservationists who want it kept as a historical landmark at odds with church officials.

Reports say church officials don't want the historical designation, and want any new owner to have the option of demolishing it.

St. Peter's Church was built out of stone in 1926 and served the city's Italian community. It was closed in late 2010, and church officials note it has some serious structural issues.

That hasn't stopped some local residents, along with at least one city councilwoman, from trying to have the building preserved. But other council members say they wouldn't support landmark status unless there was outcry from more than just a few people.