The brick chimney on the west side of the House of Ludington topples as heavy machinery tears the historic structure apart Sunday. The owner decided to go ahead with demolition after the 162-year-old Escanaba landmark was extensively damaged by fire Dec. 5. (R. R. Branstrom/Daily Press)

ESCANABA — Demolition of the House of Ludington on Sunday marked the end of its 162-year life. The action drew spectators who watched mostly from vehicles in the bitter weather.

The House of Ludington, called the “crown jewel of Escanaba” by some, was ravaged by fire Dec. 5, sustaining heavy damage from not only the blaze but also the tons of water that were hosed on the building throughout the day by multiple firefighting agencies.

The House of Ludington had experienced several eras; people from different generations will remember its multiple iterations.

The current owner of the building, Gabor Zsolnay, bought the landmark in 2022. He immigrated from Hungary roughly 70 years ago, made a living as an architect and now lives in the Chicago area, retired.

“The first time I dined at The House of Ludington was early summer in 1957 as a guest of Elmer F. Potter. He was a close friend of Mr. Raymond Jurmo, who lived across from the beach park,” Zsolnay shared when the Daily Press reached out in December. He mentioned that the then-operator of the Daily Press also had an amazing house that would now be called mid-century; it overlooked the lake, and “fine parties were hosted there,” Zsolnay recalled.

Upon learning that the House of Ludington was coming down, the Daily Press again contacted Zsolnay on Sunday, and the gentleman responded promptly. His reply, sent by email, is reproduced in entirety here:

“I shed tears for The House of Ludington, for the history and symbolism of its legacy, and for Escanaba as a community. The good employees who cared about their work also.

“I invested more than funds, more than equipment and furnishings, more than operating guidance, more than architectural and design direction.

“My focus has been architectural preservation and the continuation of customs and traditions from years past. I seek to recognize hidden value and to restore appreciation of valuable properties.

“The House of Ludington represented a great combination of opportunities aligned with my interests. Also, with my personal life at a youthful and impressionable time.

“On December 5, 2025, fire rendered what I cared about and what I could contribute to, into a hopeless reality.

“Construction cost estimates received were from $2 million to ‘stabilize’ to $8 million to rebuild. The results of which would not have been The House of Ludington about which I cared.

“I am a preservation and restoration advocate, and I cannot see a continuing role for myself in Escanaba.

“At the urging of local officials, we proceeded quickly in part for reasons of safety, and frankly to reduce the pain of the demolition process for myself and others emotionally affected.

“The House of Ludington’s iconic sign was removed first and stored for safe keeping. Site clearing and fence enclosures were erected for public safety. With the capable help of the local Klee family construction team demolition commenced.

“My focus on preservation projects, and my age, preclude my taking on the task of developing this prime site. The opportunity to build an iconic facility on this lakefront location will have to be passed on to others.

“With Much Regret,

Gabor”