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The largest demolition of Lustron houses began this week.
Built in the 1950s, 34 all-steel houses on the U.S. Marine Corps Base in Quantico, Va., will soon be reduced to rubble, despite preservationists' request to salvage materials.
"I'm really disappointed. It's just a huge loss for Lustron owners across the country," says Todd Zeiger, director the Historic Landmarks Foundation of Indiana's northern regional office. "You can't make these parts anymore."
Only one house was saved: A Delaware man forked up $15,000 to dismantle a three-bedroom house for his retirement. "When I was notified I was awarded a home, I went down there and took a walk through the neighborhood, and this one jumped out as being the one in the best condition," says engineer and architect Dave Mills. "I understand taking some buildings down, but I think a better effort could have been made to save these."