In case you hadn’t heard, some administrative paper pushers at the City of Austin recently threatened to make artist Vince Hannemann tear down the Cathedral of Junk unless it can be made to comply with city building code. This is the same city government that has used this South Austin landmark to promote Austin’s unique culture.

To save the cathedral, a site has been launched and Facebook group formed to organize work crews to get the structure in shape for an inspection by the City at the end of next week. If the structure is not brought up to code, Vince will likely be forced to tear the Cathedral down. Tools are being provided to those who want to help and the cycling community is stepping up with a ride on Sunday leaving at noon from the Lamar Blvd Pfluger Bridge to help.

I was Vince’s neighbor for 5 years and have fond memories of taking my children to the cathedral. He’s also hosted fundraisers to help those in need without insurance and help teach art classes at our local elementary school. This is a wonderful piece of the unique fabric of Austin and deserves our help. Please join the ride or stop by during the work sessions to save this gem.