Proof of Life
By Katherine Adams
Formerly known as the Lucas Terrace Apartments, the building at 1407 Broadway has survived every subsequent hurricane on the Island since the Great Storm of 1900, but it has one notable occupant whose story of survival and proof of life might surpass even that of the building.
“Proof of life” is a phrase commonly used
to indicate proof that a kidnap victim is still alive. That phrase also perfectly describes the history of the former
building at 1407 Broadway. The stone and brick structure, always
noted for its unique, carved stone planter boxes on its front facade and its prime location across from the Bishop’s Palace, was once located about six blocks away, but it was demolished in the Great Storm of 1900. Known at the time as the Lucas Terrace, the apartments were thought to be sturdy enough to withstand the hurricane, but the building collapsed upon
apartment
itself, tragically crushing to death about dozens of Islanders seeking refuge there. “Thomas Lucas, who was the original
owner of that building, bought the lot at 1407 Broadway and moved the materials from the destroyed place over there,” said Better Homes and Gardens realtor Steve Aubin, who is currently listing the property. “They built the east wing of the house first, then built the second part. Construction at this site began in 1901 and then they made a breezeway that connected one side to the other. Construction was completed in about 1908.”
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