Tragic fire engulfs beloved landmark, The Crooked House, raising questions for its future

The Tragic Fire at The Crooked House

In a devastating turn of events, The Crooked House, a beloved Black Country landmark, was engulfed in flames on the night of August 5th. The fire, which left the pub in ruins, has sparked an investigation to determine the cause of the incident. Emergency services were quick to respond to the scene, but the iconic former farmhouse, known for its unique architectural quirks and historical significance, was tragically destroyed. The pub had recently been sold to a private buyer, raising questions about the future of the building.

Calls for Preservation and Rebuilding

The news of The Crooked House's destruction has left many locals mourning the loss of a cherished piece of history. A petition was swiftly launched, garnering over 2,300 signatures, urging for the building to be rebuilt at the Black Country Living Museum. Supporters of the petition argue that the museum, located in Tipton Road, Dudley, would be the perfect place to preserve the history of the pub. However, the museum's management stated that they were not in a position to save or relocate the building. Despite this setback, the hope remains that The Crooked House can be restored and find a sustainable use.

The Status of The Crooked House as a Listed Building

Amidst the discussions surrounding the preservation of The Crooked House, there has been confusion over whether the building is listed. Listing a building signifies its national importance due to special architectural or historic interest. However, conflicting reports have emerged, with some national media outlets suggesting that The Crooked House is listed. To clarify the situation, Birmingham Live contacted Historic England, who confirmed that The Crooked House was not listed. This information adds another layer to the ongoing debate about the future of the iconic pub.

The Questions Arising from the Fire

The fire at The Crooked House has been met with shock and sadness from the local community and beyond. As investigations into the cause of the fire continue, questions are being raised about the incident. Mayor of the West Midlands, Andy Street, has called for answers, emphasizing the need to restore and preserve this iconic Black Country landmark. The petition to save The Crooked House reflects the deep attachment people have to the pub's rich history. While the Black Country Living Museum has expressed their inability to save or relocate the building, the hope remains that The Crooked House can be restored and find a new lease on life. The debate surrounding the listing status of the building adds another dimension to the discussion, highlighting the need for clarity and accurate information. As the investigation progresses, the future of The Crooked House hangs in the balance, leaving many eagerly awaiting the outcome.