An angel steps forward: First Harrison to restore the Yenowine-Nichols-Collins House.

There is encouraging news for a victimized historic property in Georgetown.

Embattled Floyd County historic home to get new owner; Disputed house site to become First Harrison branch, by Joseph Lord (News and Tribune).

First Harrison Bank is planning to make a home of the Yenowine-Nichols-Collins House, a circa-1932 building gutted last year in a blaze.

The bank on Friday announced plans to move its Edwardsville-Georgetown branch, along North Luther Road, into the Collins House. If realized, the bank’s plan would end years of battles over the house’s condition.

The home’s exterior would be restored and the bank would add office space to the rear of the structure, said Bill Harrod, chief operating officer for First Harrison and president of the bank’s holding company …

… On Halloween 2005, much of the Collins House interior was destroyed by arson, (Historic Landmarks Foundation of Indiana regional director Greg) Sekula said Friday. Since then, it’s sat in ruins …

… The foundation had in recent years won a court order to restore the exterior of the building after the building had fallen into disrepair, Sekula said. The house was owned by Charles and Linda Meyer, The Tribune reported in 2005.

The Meyers could not be reached for comment.

First, institutionalized neglect and open contempt for the rules of the game. Then, a mysterious torching. Now, a third party steps in to make the best of a bad situation, and this is something to be applauded by responsible, respectful citizens. Too bad it's come to this.

Readers, were there ever any leads as to the source of the torching? I don't recall hearing of any. Another cold, cold case.

Meanwhile, previously at NAC: Duh.