The community is invited to witness the revitalization of a piece of Seminole history early next month.

According to a press release, GuRuStu Communities, in collaboration with the Avedis Foundation, will host the “Ceremonial First Hammer Swing” event on Friday, May 9 from 12-4 p.m. at the historic Van Sanford Apartments on Milt Phillips.

Next month’s event marks the official start of the interior demolition and the full historic restoration of the landmark structure that was built in 1929 and sustained significant damage in the May 2022 tornadoes.

The “Ceremonial First Hammer Swing,” scheduled for 1:30 p.m., will symbolize the start of the journey to bring this significant piece of Seminole’s history back to life, that will provide housing while preserving its architectural heritage.

The Van Sanford Apartments were the first permanent multifamily lodging constructed after the great Seminole oil boom. It was considered a luxurious residence for its time, with each unit boasting Kelvinator refrigerators and private telephone lines.

“This project will serve as a powerful model for any small town seeking to preserve its history. Through innovative partnerships between public, private, and nonprofit entities like Avedis Foundation, we’re demonstrating that with a little creativity and collaborative spirit, even seemingly insurmountable challenges can be overcome,” Stuart McDaniel, owner and representative of GuRuStu Communities, stated in the press release.

McDaniel says full historic restoration will utilize historic tax credits to restore all public spaces, including hallways and common areas, to their 1929 grandeur. The apartment interiors will be modernized with a focus on retaining historic details such as the original hardwoods, period-correct lighting fixtures, and decorative original fireplaces and built-ins.

The event will offer an opportunity for the community to learn more about the restoration plans. Kathy Laster, President and CEO of the Avedis Foundation, will be speaking, along with McDaniel. Several representatives from the Foundation board and city officials will also be in attendance. A taco food truck will be on-site serving food during the early part of the event, coinciding with the lunch hour, and refreshments will be available while supplies last.

For more information, visit vansanford.com and/or gurustu.com.