The previous owners planted it. I have no idea what variety it is, but it does bloom and smell like lilac. I cut it way back a few years ago because there was so much dead wood. It's a mass of suckers right now and i'd be happy to pass them on. I don't recall how big it was when i cut it back, but it was not the ten plus ft high that i remember lilacs in Philly being. I've got too many rooting projects right now (figs, figs, figs, and beauty berry) but once you are mobile again -- soon? -- and feel like heading for a road trip to Pittsboro, i would be happy to get some of the suckers plus roots to you. I've a picture of it blooming April 19 2019.

No murder required!