I’m sure there must be countless examples of European structures being successfully renovated, but it has been my sad experience that such endeavors are prone to catastrophe. Take the Cutty Sark at Greenwich, England (built in 1869), for example. That sail-powered trading ship established speed records sailing to Australia and back, then enjoyed a leisurely retirement as an historic vessel. So many people wanted to tour its decks that its owners decided to permanently anchor it, surround it with protection, and build a meeting room under it. As a result of these changes, a fire consumed most of the ship.