Dan_Musicant wrote:



Contractor's seem to want to discourage me from repairing or replacing
the fireplace but they don't tell me it isn't doable. The cheapest
thing would seem to be to remove it entirely if and when I have the
foundation rebuilt and the siding replaced.

Time and money can fix most anything. Any historical value? Your money so
your call.


Yes, I could buy a wood burning stove, but aren't they sort of
depressing? I mean, you don't get to watch the fire, right?

I have a Vermont Castings. While more efficient closed, I can burn it witht
he doors open for nice atmosphere. I can also burn the logs down to nice
hot coals and grill steaks on it.



Is it just too damned expensive to replace/repair my fireplace/chimney?

At that age it may need work, but it is also possible to put a liner inside.