Houseboat, Historic Home Face Devastating Damage of Heavy Lake-Effect Snow

As the region prepares for another round of lake-effect snow, damage is still being witnessed in area form the first round.

The effects are still being noticed for homes on, and even off, land.

"We weren't able to get out there and remove the snow because the ice was in no way safe," said Mike Hirsch, president of the Horseshoe Pond Houseboat Owners Association.

One of the resident's homes sank into the water this week due to the weight of the heavy snow. The homeowners are in communication with Lakeshore Towing Services to work toward a solution.

"Just part of the deal of having a house boat," Hirsch said.

Meanwhile in Fairview, Jennifer Dworek has her own mess to clean up at the house. The beginning of the week took a turn when she peeked outside.

"Pretty much just looking out the window and seeing the tip of it just kind of tipped down," Dworek said.

Dworek is the current owner of historic Dobler House, which was built in 1894 by wealthy brewerie owner A.F. Dobler as a summer home.

The carriage house on the property, separate from the original home, partially collapsed on Monday due to the multiple feet of snow that hit the region. The building was functioning as a garage and an apartment for the family.

"It's very sad," Dworek said. "We have been here for over 20 years trying to bring this place back."

The family has been receiving feedback from people passing by. 

"We've had some people reach out to us that have just drove by, saw it and kind of gave us our their sympathy," Dworek said. "That has been standing for over 120 years."

She admitted, however, that this was a huge setback for them. They purchased the home in 2004, but after receiving costly estimates for reconstruction, they are considering a teardown altogether.