95-Year-Old Painter and Family Win Reprieve in Provincetown Eviction Battle
PROVINCETOWN, Mass. (AP) — In a stunning victory, a 95-year-old painter and his family have successfully fought off eviction from their cherished dune shack in Provincetown, Massachusetts. The Del Deo family, who has cared for and occupied the shack for nearly 80 years, reached an agreement with federal officials that will allow them to continue living in the shack for the next five years.
The shack, nestled in the Cape Cod National Seashore’s Peaked Hill Bars Historic District, is one of many scattered along the remote stretches of Provincetown and Truro. These secluded shacks, lacking modern amenities like electricity and plumbing, are highly valued for their solitude and tranquility.
The family was blindsided by a sudden eviction notice issued by the National Park Service, which planned to open a bidding process for 10-year leases on eight of the shacks. Despite not being part of the initial eight, the Del Deo’s shack could have been included in subsequent bidding rounds.
Romolo Del Deo, the son of Salvatore Del Deo, explained the family’s decision to fight the eviction, citing their deep connection to the shack. “My father has been painting at that location for 77 years. The bond he has with that place is profound,” he said.
Del Deo also highlighted the unique nature of these shacks, which are intentionally constructed in a haphazard manner. “The beauty of these shacks is that they seem to gracefully ride the waves of sand,” he added.
Despite the eviction notice, the family adamantly refused to vacate the shack, leaving their possessions intact. Fortunately, a team of pro-bono lawyers intervened on their behalf, working with the Interior Department to negotiate an agreement. The result is a five-year lease extension, allowing the Del Deo family to remain in the shack.
Del Deo expressed his gratitude for the outcome and emphasized the desire to maintain their presence in the shack they hold dear. “We’re thrilled with the resolution we’ve reached. It was crucial for us to keep our connection to this special place,” he stated.
The timing of the agreement was also carefully managed, ensuring the family could return to the shack in time to celebrate the birthday of their late mother, Josephine, who played a significant role in the establishment of the Cape Cod National Seashore.
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