Wreckers’ Losses

Sir:… You will be pleased to know that the Destrehan Manor House is not doomed. The landmark is located on property owned by American Oil Company, where we once operated a refinery. After the refinery was abandoned and dismantled in 1959, the Manor House became the object of vandalism and other deterioration. This occurred despite our providing around-the-clock guard service after the refinery was closed.

We are now negotiating to sell the property. While doing so, we intend that the sale exclude the Manor House and some surrounding property. This we plan to donate to a local historical society with whom we’ve been working. We are hopeful that the land sale and donation will be completed within the near future. …

Harry A. Swanson
Manager, Field Service
American Oil Company Chicago, Illinois