FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (AP) _ An historic Fort Lauderdale house that often served as a wedding chapel for couples eloping from Miami could be demolished unless city commissioners approve a plan to save it.

 

The early 20th-century house was built for one of Fort Lauderdale's first judges, Fred Shippey. Over the years, he presided over many weddings there, including that of “Tarzan'' star and swimming champion Johnny Weissmuller.

According to the South Florida Sun-Sentinel a salvage effort failed three years ago and a debt company seized ownership. An appellate court has cleared the way for demolition.

Historic preservationists have been trying to raise $200,000 to move and renovate the house. They are asking the city to use a parking lot in an entertainment district. A decision must be made by the end of September.