Crews hired by the owner of a historic home located in downtown Rockville Centre are demolishing the property this morning, though what will replace it is still unclear.

According to the Historical Society of Rockville Centre, the home dates back to 1863 and was one of many homes on the block, but over time the surrounding area has changed into a commercial district and the property owner wants to bring the Civil War-era home into the 21st Century.

The owner had previously proposed a plan to transform the property into a multi-story mixed-use building that would include medical offices and rooftop dining. That proposal was before the village's Zoning Board of Appeals because it required parking and setback variances.

But on April 9, the owner withdrew the application to rework it and eventually submit a more scaled-back version to ease community concerns over parking and traffic.

For months, some community members have fought to save the home for its historic value.

Those involved said the property owner is within his legal rights to demolish the home even without a redevelopment plan in place.

Yesterday, crews removed the brick chimney by hand. Today, they are expected to begin demolishing the main structure to clear the lot by the end of the week.

According to village officials, work will take place today and tomorrow between 5 a.m. and noon.