Last week, when we were snapping photos of demolition in preparation for the massive MJL development at 19th and Poplar Sts., we noticed 878 N 19th St., a gorgeous old brownstone that’s gotten some unfortunate plastic surgery in recent years.

Tree in the way

Better

We thought that perhaps this resulted from damage caused by the demolition of the church next door, but this was definitely not the case. As you can see below, it was like this before the church came down.

Two years ago

One thing is clear- it mars the face of what is otherwise a very attractive old building. Does anybody want to suggest why someone thought that this might be a good idea?