Category: Southeastern United States

  • Joel Chandler Harris Residence, “The Wren’s Nest” (1884) – Atlanta

    George P. Humphries. Joel Chandler Harris Residence, "The Wren's Nest" (1884). West End, Atlanta.
    George P. Humphries. Joel Chandler Harris Residence, “The Wren’s Nest” (1884). West End, Atlanta.1 2 3
    Looking at The Wren's Nest from the northeast
    Looking at The Wren’s Nest from the northeast
    Second-floor window and shed dormer on The Wren's Nest, Atlanta
    Second-floor window and shed dormer on The Wren’s Nest, Atlanta
    Post, brackets, and latticework on the front porch of The Wren's Nest, Atlanta
    Post, brackets, and latticework on the front porch of The Wren’s Nest, Atlanta
    Corbels and open pediment on front porch of The Wren's Nest. Atlanta
    Corbels and open pediment on front porch of The Wren’s Nest. Atlanta
    Looking at The Wren's Nest from the northwest
    Looking at The Wren’s Nest from the northwest
    Fretwork rails and latticework on the front porch of The Wren's Nest, Atlanta
    Fretwork rails and latticework on the front porch of The Wren’s Nest, Atlanta
    Stained-glass window on the west elevation of The Wren's Nest, Atlanta
    Stained-glass window on the west elevation of The Wren’s Nest, Atlanta
    Fish-scale shingles, window, and chimney on the second floor of The Wren's Nest, Atlanta
    Fish-scale shingles, window, and chimney on the second floor of The Wren’s Nest, Atlanta
    Stair hall in The Wren's Nest, Atlanta
    Stair hall in The Wren’s Nest, Atlanta
    Parlor in The Wren's Nest, Atlanta
    Parlor in The Wren’s Nest, Atlanta
    Parlor in The Wren's Nest, Atlanta
    Parlor in The Wren’s Nest, Atlanta
    Fireplace and mantel in the parlor of The Wren's Nest, Atlanta
    Fireplace and mantel in the parlor of The Wren’s Nest, Atlanta
    Looking toward the stairs and stair hall in The Wren's Nest, Atlanta
    Looking toward the stairs and stair hall in The Wren’s Nest, Atlanta
    Library in The Wren's Nest, Atlanta
    Library in The Wren’s Nest, Atlanta
    Window in the study of The Wren's Nest, Atlanta
    Window in the library of The Wren’s Nest, Atlanta
    Central hall in The Wren's Nest, Atlanta
    Central hall in The Wren’s Nest, Atlanta
    Library in The Wren's Nest, Atlanta
    Music room in The Wren’s Nest, Atlanta
    Music room in The Wren's Nest, Atlanta
    Music room in The Wren’s Nest, Atlanta
    Children's bedroom in The Wren's Nest, Atlanta
    Children’s bedroom in The Wren’s Nest, Atlanta
    Bedroom of Joel Chandler Harris in The Wren's Nest, Atlanta
    Bedroom of Joel Chandler Harris in The Wren’s Nest, Atlanta
    Bedroom in The Wren's Nest, Atlanta
    Bedroom in The Wren’s Nest, Atlanta
    Dining room in The Wren's Nest, Atlanta
    Dining room in The Wren’s Nest, Atlanta
    Fireplace and mantel in the dining room of The Wren's Nest, Atlanta
    Fireplace and mantel in the dining room of The Wren’s Nest, Atlanta
    Dining room in The Wren's Nest, Atlanta
    Dining room in The Wren’s Nest, Atlanta

    References

    1. Bastedo, Mrs. Charles Wesley. “Early Architect”. The Atlanta Journal and Constitution Magazine, February 10, 1974, p. 5. ↩︎
    2. “Building Notes.” The Atlanta Constitution, July 12, 1884, p. 7. ↩︎
    3. “West End Notes.” The Atlanta Constitution, November 3, 1884, p. 7. ↩︎
  • Healy Guest House, “Cocoon House” (1948) – Siesta Key, Florida

    Twichell & Rudolph. Healy Guest House, "Cocoon House" (1948). Siesta Key, Florida.
    Twichell & Rudolph. Healy Guest House, “Cocoon House” (1948). Siesta Key, Florida.1

    References

    1. Domin, Christopher, and King, Joseph. Paul Rudolph: The Florida Houses. New York: Princeton Architectural Press (2002). ↩︎
  • Davison-Paxon-Stokes Department Store (1927) – Atlanta

    Starrett & van Vleck with Hentz, Reid & Adler. Davison-Paxon-Stokes Department Store (1927). Atlanta.
    Starrett & van Vleck with Hentz, Reid & Adler. Davison-Paxon-Stokes Department Store (1927). Atlanta. 1 2
    Cornice on the Davison-Paxon-Stokes Department Store, Atlanta
    Cornice on the Davison-Paxon-Stokes Department Store, Atlanta
    Looking up at the east facade of the Davison-Paxon-Stokes Department Store, Atlanta
    Looking up at the east facade of the Davison-Paxon-Stokes Department Store, Atlanta
    Ornamental corbel on the east facade of the Davison-Paxon-Stokes Department Store, Atlanta
    Ornamental corbel on the east facade of the Davison-Paxon-Stokes Department Store, Atlanta
    Second-floor windows on the east facade of the Davison-Paxon-Stokes Department Store, Atlanta
    Second-floor windows on the east facade of the Davison-Paxon-Stokes Department Store, Atlanta
    Corbel and stringcourse on the east facade of the Davison-Paxon-Stokes Department Store, Atlanta
    Corbel and stringcourse on the east facade of the Davison-Paxon-Stokes Department Store, Atlanta
    Second-floor window on the east facade of the Davison-Paxon-Stokes Department Store, Atlanta
    Second-floor window on the east facade of the Davison-Paxon-Stokes Department Store, Atlanta
    South elevation of the Davison-Paxon-Stokes Department Store
    South elevation of the Davison-Paxon-Stokes Department Store, Atlanta

    References

    1. “$7,000,000 Department Store, Theater, Garage To Be Built By Candler Interests On Peachtree”. The Atlanta Journal, March 8, 1925, p. 1. ↩︎
    2. “Brief Formal Ceremony Held As Davison-Paxon’s Great New Store Opens”. The Atlanta Journal, March 21, 1927, p. 1. ↩︎
  • J.M. Beath Residence (1890) – Atlanta

    A.McC. Nixon. J.M. Beath Residence (1890). Inman Park, Atlanta.
    A.McC. Nixon. J.M. Beath Residence (1890). Inman Park, Atlanta.

    The Queen Anne-style J.M. Beath Residence in Atlanta’s Inman Park neighborhood, better known as the Beath-Dickey House, is the only known extant work by A.McC. Nixon, a British-born architect1 who began his practice in Texas circa 1881 2 3 and first appeared in Atlanta in 1888.4

    In late 1890, Nixon partnered with J.M.P. Lindsey as Nixon & Lindsey.5 The firm dissolved in 1894,6 shortly before a court trial in which the pair were acquitted on charges of larceny stemming from their supervision of a home’s construction in 1891.7 8 9 10

    The client had accused the architects of pocketing money intended for the contractors, but the matter was successfully proven to be an accounting error.11 Still, the well-publicized trial appears to have damaged Nixon’s reputation.

    Lindsey moved to Toronto in January 1895,12 and Nixon’s work in Atlanta dwindled. In July 1896, his personal possessions and business contents were sold at public auction to pay off debt.13

    Apparently quite ill, Nixon returned to England in July 1896, “in the hope that the sea voyage might improve his shattered health.”14 Yet as The Southern Architect so eloquently reported:

    “On the contrary, the physicians consulted after his arrival in England pronounced his ailment a hopeless case of consumption, and gave him but a few weeks of life. This will be sad news to all who knew the gentleman here in his adopted city and throughout the South, where he established a high reputation as a skilled architect, and had won many friends by his gentle and cultured manners, and whose sincere sympathies like silken chords will extend to him and his across the ocean in their hours of trial and affliction.”15

    Nixon died in England in October 1896.16

    Nixon & Lindsey. D.H. Dougherty House (1891, demolished 1931). Atlanta.
    Nixon & Lindsey. D.H. Dougherty Residence (1891, demolished 1931). Atlanta.17 18 19

    Despite the claim that he was a “skilled architect,” I’ve seen no evidence that Nixon was an especially good designer, and the Beath Residence’s clumsy, top-heavy design is typical of his oeuvre.

    The home was said to be of the “Domestic Gothic” style, “although not pure in this style throughout.”20 That was an understatement: I see almost nothing Gothic about it, except the spiky roof finial.

    The home was also reportedly built “at very moderate cost,”21 which is apparent from its appearance.

    In 1891, Nixon also designed the similarly styled D.H. Dougherty Residence (above, demolished),22 which has been erroneously attributed to both G.L. Norrman and W.L. Stoddart.23

    Atlanta really doesn’t know its own history.

    Looking at the Palladian window on the J.M. Beath Residence, Atlanta
    Looking at the Palladian window on the J.M. Beath Residence, Atlanta
    Dormer and roof finial on the J.M. Beath Residence, Atlanta
    Dormer and roof finial on the J.M. Beath Residence, Atlanta
    Attic window on the J.M. Beath Residence, Atlanta
    Attic window on the J.M. Beath Residence, Atlanta
    Belvedere on the J.M. Beath Residence, Atlanta
    Belvedere on the J.M. Beath Residence, Atlanta
    Post and ornamentation on the second floor of the J.M. Beath Residence, Atlanta
    Post and ornamentation on the second floor of the J.M. Beath Residence, Atlanta
    Bargeboard and ornamentation on the J.M. Beath Residence, Atlanta
    Bargeboard and ornamentation on the J.M. Beath Residence, Atlanta
    Chimneys on the J.M. Beath Residence, Atlanta
    Chimneys on the J.M. Beath Residence, Atlanta
    Corbels on the J.M. Beath Residence, Atlanta
    Corbels on the J.M. Beath Residence, Atlanta
    Gable on the J.M. Beath Residence, Atlanta
    Gable on the J.M. Beath Residence, Atlanta
    Turret on the J.M. Beath Residence, Atlanta
    Turret on the J.M. Beath Residence, Atlanta
    Roof finial on the J.M. Beath Residence, Atlanta
    Roof finial on the J.M. Beath Residence, Atlanta
    J.M. Beath Residence circa 1903
    J.M. Beath Residence circa 190324
    J.M. Beath Residence circa 1900
    J.M. Beath Residence circa 190025

    References

    1. “Personal.” The Southern Architect, Volume 7, No. 9 (July 1896), p. 182. ↩︎
    2. “San Sada.” The Galveston Daily News, May 15, 1881, p. 1. ↩︎
    3. “Twenty-Five Cent Column”. The Austin Daily Statesman, June 2, 1881, p. 3. ↩︎
    4. “From Our Notebooks.” The Atlanta Constitution, October 1, 1888, p. 4. ↩︎
    5. “Wanted.” The Atlanta Journal, November 15, 1890, p. 7. ↩︎
    6. “A Dissolution of Copartnership.” The Atlanta Constitution, April 4, 1894, p. 3. ↩︎
    7. “Architects On Trial.” The Atlanta Journal, June 21, 1894, p. 1. ↩︎
    8. “The Architect Not Guilty.” The Atlanta Journal, June 22, 1894, p. 3. ↩︎
    9. “Mr. Nixon Not Guilty.” The Atlanta Constitution, June 23, 1894, p. 5. ↩︎
    10. “The Case Dismissed.” The Atlanta Journal, June 23, 1894, p. 9. ↩︎
    11. ibid. ↩︎
    12. “Personally Speaking.” The Atlanta Journal, January 12, 1895, p. 12. ↩︎
    13. “Public Sale of Personal Valuable Property”. The Atlanta Journal, June 15, 1896, p. 2. ↩︎
    14. “Personal.” The Southern Architect, Vol. 7, No. 9 (July 1896), p. 182. ↩︎
    15. ibid. ↩︎
    16. “Mr. A. McC Nixon Dead.” The Atlanta Journal, October 26, 1896, p. 5. ↩︎
    17. Photo credit: Garrett, Franklin M. Yesterday’s Atlanta. Miami: E.A. Seamann Publishing, Inc. (1974). ↩︎
    18. “Happy Days Are Recalled by Atlantians as Old Colonial Club Yields To Progress”. The Atlanta Journal, February 22, 1931, p. 4. ↩︎
    19. “Miscellaneous for Sale” (advertisement). The Atlanta Constitution, February 18, 1931, p. 20. ↩︎
    20. “The Illustrations”. The Southern Architect, Vol. 6, No. 8 (June 1895), p. 167. ↩︎
    21. ibid. ↩︎
    22. ibid. ↩︎
    23. “Hopkins Corner Leased 10 Years By Goodrich Co.” The Atlanta Journal, January 7, 1931, p. 14. ↩︎
    24. Photo credit: Art Work of Atlanta: Published in Nine Parts ↩︎
    25. Photo credit: Marr, Christine V. and Sharon Foster Jones. Inman Park. Arcadia Publishing: Charleston, South Carolina, 2008, p. 45. ↩︎

  • Denmark Hall (1902) – Athens, Georgia

    G.L. Norrman. Denmark Hall (1902). University of Georgia, Athens.
    G.L. Norrman. Denmark Hall (1902). University of Georgia, Athens.

    One of G.L. Norrman‘s least interesting works, Denmark Hall at the University of Georgia in Athens, has always been something of a bastard stepchild.

    Tucked in a dark corner of the campus near South Lumpkin Street, the structure was designed primarily as a dining hall containing two adjoining 1,296-square-foot dining rooms and initially accommodated 144 students.1

    The structure was built concurrently with nearby Candler Hall and was named for B.A. Denmark of Savannah2, a University of Georgia alumnus and the chairman of the building committee for the university’s Board of Trustees, who died in June 1901, just weeks after approving Norrman’s plans,3 and one day before the building’s cornerstone ceremony.4

    Location of Denmark Hall

    Denmark had secured $45,000 from the Georgia legislature to fund the 2 buildings,5 but one of Norrman’s original plans called for combining the dining hall and dormitory into one structure—the committee rejected that proposal.6

    Candler Hall subsequently received the bulk of the funding— $28,0007—and most of Norrman’s attention, it seems. Denmark Hall was reportedly built for less than half that amount: $12,850.8

    Norrman’s plans were selected in open competition against a fairly meager crop of designers: J.W. GoLucke of Atlanta, Hodgson & Company of Athens, Georgia; E.C. Seiz of Atlanta; D.A. Myer of Williamsport, Pennsylvania; Alexander Blair of Macon, Georgia; and Walter & Legare of Columbia, South Carolina.9

    It also no doubt helped that Norrman and B.A. Denmark had a history together: Denmark was a longtime member of Savannah’s local Board of Public Education, and approved Norrman’s plans for the Anderson Street School (1896),10 and presumably, the 38th Street School (1901).11

    The Design

    G.L. Norrman. Projected design of Denmark Hall (1901). University of Georgia, Athens.
    G.L. Norrman. Projected design of Denmark Hall, Athens, Georgia.12

    Low-slung and utilitarian, Denmark Hall was designed with a central 2-story structure that originally housed the dining rooms, flanked by a large one-story kitchen at the back and a small one-story wing at the front, containing a sitting room, lounge, and small recessed entry porch. Storage rooms were located in the basement.13

    The second floor included the “matron’s room”—living quarters for the dining hall manager—and “three other rooms for the use of students who may be sick enough to need such care and attention as they can be given there”, according to the Atlanta Constitution.14 A spacious recessed porch spanned the front of the second floor.

    The exterior of the building was clad in stucco-covered brick scored to resemble stone and given Neoclassical touches.

    Intact original elements include:

    • A simple Tuscan cornice around the main structure
    • A plain string course at the base of the building
    • A composite cornice on the front wing
    • Smooth pilasters on the front wing
    • Mullioned windows on the front wing
    • 4 chimneys

    Original elements that have been removed include:

    • The second-floor porch
    • 7 Doric columns
      • 2 decorative columns framing the entry
      • 5 supporting columns spaced across the second-floor porch
    • A balustrade lining the roof of the front wing
    • Dormer windows on the front and sides

    Denmark Hall’s facade evolved from Norrman’s design for the Arthur B.M. Gibbes Residence in Savannah, Georgia, built in 1900.15 The Gibbes home is one of the most atrocious designs Norrman ever put his name to, and Denmark Hall wasn’t much better.

    G.L. Norrman. Arthur B.M. Gibbes House (1900). Savannah, Georgia.
    G.L. Norrman. Arthur B.M. Gibbes Residence (1900). Savannah, Georgia.

    By the turn of the 20th century, Norrman had all but abandoned the brash, soaring lines and elements of his earlier designs: the lofty towers, fantastically high roofs, oversized porches and gables, and prominent chimneys.

    The transition was partly due to changing tastes, but also reflected a severely depressed economy and Norrman’s own dwindling fortunes.

    Looking at his projects circa 1897-1900, it’s clear that Norrman had lost confidence, inspiration, and interest: his designs from the time were often sluggish and banal, many of them poor rehashes of his earlier, more successful works.

    The Gibbes Residence was one such project, a clunky reiteration of his design for the Milton Dargan Residence in Atlanta.

    For Denmark Hall, Norrman took the template for the Dargan and Gibbes facades and stretched it out. The entry porch from those designs remained, but the Palladian windows on either side were replaced with simpler windows.

    The small recessed porch from the previous plans was expanded across the second floor, and the two large dormer windows from the Dargan house were shrunk to fit the building’s reduced height.

    Norrman was a master of working with solids and voids in his compositions, and in his design for Denmark Hall, you can easily spot his technique.

    It was as if he had removed a block of space from the second floor and placed it at the foot of the building, creating both the upper porch and the lower front wing—a simple but effective trick to achieve visual balance.

    The building’s overall composition would have been stronger if it had remained faithful to the design shown in the original rendering (above), which included a higher roofline.

    Why Norrman altered the roof to a lower pitch is unclear, but a vintage photograph of the building (pictured below) shows that the large porch columns and wide chimneys depicted in the illustration were substituted with thinner versions to accommodate the altered design, robbing the composition of much-needed vigor.

    Breaking with classical precedent, the odd number of columns across the front was an unconventional choice, and a subtle indicator of the building’s role as a modern facility for the 20th century.

    Photograph of Denmark Hall from an undated postcard.
    Photograph of Denmark Hall from an undated postcard.16

    Construction and History

    Construction on Denmark Hall began circa May 1901,17 using convict labor loaned by Clarke County.18

    There was a report from June 1901 that the university’s Board of Trustees had concerns about the quality of the building materials used in Denmark Hall and Candler Hall, which the Atlanta Constitution remarked were “without weight, the architect demonstrating to the satisfaction of the board that the material was all right.”19

    Denmark Hall’s cornerstone was laid on June 14, 1901,20 and a July report from “Supt. McKinly” stated that work on both buildings was expected to be completed by late October.21

    Denmark and Candler Halls ultimately opened on January 7, 1902. With delays blamed on weather and the holidays, construction on the buildings ran to the last minute, and their completion delayed the start of the school semester by four days.22

    In Denmark Hall’s first year of operation, students were charged a whopping $7.50 to $8 a month for meals.23

    The original “matron” of the facility was Mrs. B.H. Kinnebrew.24 She resigned in March 1908,25 after her husband, a sheriff’s deputy, shot and killed himself with a .44 caliber pistol “from no known cause” in their apartment on the building’s second floor.26 27

    By that time, students had already begun referring to Denmark Hall as “the Beanery”,28 an inglorious name that stuck with the structure for decades. By 1910, with the school’s halls overflowing, part of the second floor was converted to dormitory space,29 a function it served through at least the early 1920s.

    Interior of Denmark Hall, Athens, Georgia. Photograph from a postcard postmarked 1907.
    Interior of Denmark Hall, Athens, Georgia. Photograph from a postcard postmarked 1907.

    Norrman never seemed overly concerned with planning his structures for anticipated growth: he publicly railed against “waste space” and consistently designed his interiors to be as compact as possible while remaining functional.

    His design for Denmark Hall was no exception, and in November 1902, a newspaper report on the college’s record-breaking attendance stated that “every chair at the Denmark Dining Hall has been filled.”30

    By 1903, seating was increased to 160,31 and in 1908, the hall reportedly served 253 students, with the Board of Trustees asking the governor and legislature for “increased facilities at Denmark Hall.”32 In 1911, a report stated that the building was “taxed to its capacity”, requiring “enlargement and better equipment.”33

    Attendance at the school continued to grow, and despite repeated funding requests, Denmark Hall remained the only dining option on campus for more than 20 years.

    In 1914, the Athens Daily Herald reported that “the Beanery is crowded again this year”, adding, “we hope that the legislature will be able to make appropriations to enlarge the dining hall.”34

    In 1921, the Athens Daily Banner lamented: “Not only is the dining room crowded but the matter of cooking for 350 people in a kitchen equipped for two-thirds that number and not well equipped at that is taxing Mrs. Kennebrew’s [sic]most skillful management.”35 Apparently, Mrs. Kinnebrew returned.

    Finally, with the opening of Memorial Hall in June 1924, the campus gained additional dining space,36 although Denmark Hall remained the primary facility for that purpose.

    1936 addition to Denmark Hall, Athens, Georgia
    1936 addition to Denmark Hall, Athens, Georgia

    In 1936, Denmark Hall received its first expansion: a small cafeteria seating 92 students.37 38The cafeteria wing was attached to the southwest corner of the building,39 and its exterior appearance is remarkably congruent with Norrman’s design. The basement was also remodeled during the expansion.40

    The cafeteria plan quickly gained popularity, and in 1938, Denmark Hall became the first dining space on campus to switch entirely to the cafeteria system,41 ending the era of “food served in the old manner”, which required the employment of waiters.42

    In 1939, Mrs. M.D. Dunlap became the new director and dietitian of Denmark Hall,43 44 and she and her husband, a professor, took up residence on the second floor. At some point in their residency, Professor Dunlap began a garden on the roof of the front wing.45

    In 1942 and 1943, Denmark Hall received multiple additions to accommodate the feeding of 1,200 Signal Corps troops who trained on the University of Georgia campus in preparation for World War II.46 47 48

    The first expansion was an annex hastily added to the kitchen in 1942, expanding its size by a third.49 In 1943, four small additions were made to the building, including two screened porches.50 In September 1943, the Signal Corps school was closed,51 and the dining hall returned to student use.52 53

    With over $10,000 in improvements, the remodeled Denmark Hall was touted as “one of the most modern cafeterias on any campus in the South”,54 although that appears to have been hyperbole. In 1945, the university president reported to the Georgia General Assembly that the building was “outmoded and inadequate”. 55 56

    In 1948, after 10 years living on the second floor, Professor Dunlap moved to Atlanta, leaving his rooftop garden at Denmark Hall “wiltering”, according to one report.57 Seizing the opportunity, the college’s department of landscape architecture took over the building’s second floor, creating three draft rooms.58

    Since 1938, the landscape architecture department had been based at the Lumpkin House,59 60 a small antebellum residence that still stands on campus. With 75 students enrolled in the program,61 the new space in Denmark Hall was a much-needed addition to accommodate the department’s growth.

    East side of Denmark Hall, Athens, Georgia
    East side of Denmark Hall, Athens, Georgia

    In 1955, a popular student hangout spot called the Co-Op moved to Denmark Hall’s basement, where it included a soda fountain, snack bar, grill, and a supply store. For the Co-Op’s occupation of the space, the basement was air-conditioned and refinished in knotty pine.62 63

    The rest of the building, however, was not air-conditioned and was reportedly “in bad shape”. In 1952, an inspection committee identified Denmark Hall as one of several buildings “in need of extensive repairs.”64

    First-hand accounts of the Beanery at the time were unpleasant: students described it as “drab old Denmark Hall”,65 where “…to find your food during the warm months, you have to push literally dozens of flies from your plate.”66 Savory.

    With the opening of a new cafeteria in nearby Memorial Hall, the last meal at Denmark Hall was served on March 14, 1956, ending 55 years of continuous food service.67 68

    The university had previously announced its plans to demolish Denmark Hall,69 70 but the building was instead spared and received an extensive $40,000 overhaul for use as the landscape architecture department’s new home.71 72

    Looking at Denmark Hall from the northwest
    Looking at Denmark Hall from the northwest

    Primarily designed by E.C. Weren, a member of the landscape architecture faculty, Denmark Hall’s renovation was not sympathetic to Norrman’s original design.

    The renovation included the demolition of most of the original kitchen, a complete overhaul of the interior, enclosure of the second-floor porch, an outdoor stairwell tacked on to the west side of the building, air conditioning, and “extensive use of screen walls and glass.”73

    This also appears to be when Denmark Hall’s columns, dormers, and balustrade were removed from the exterior, as they were still present in a photograph from 1951.74

    The renovated building officially reopened on October 16, 1957.75

    The Co-Op remained in the basement during Denmark Hall’s renovation and was expanded,76 77 78 but in 1963, it was unceremoniously shuttered for full occupation by the landscape architecture department.79

    On October 6, 1964, the building officially reopened again, with the basement now housing a model shop, blueprint room, darkroom, drafting room, and 2 classrooms. The basement renovation reportedly cost $100,000, more than twice the amount spent on the entire building 7 years earlier.80

    Rear of Denmark Hall with screen walls from the 1957 renovation
    Rear of Denmark Hall with screen walls from the 1957 renovation

    Denmark Hall’s 1964 renovation was its last substantial alteration, although it has received piecemeal alterations and upgrades for decades. As of 2025, the building remains in use by the landscape architecture department’s successor, the College of Environment + Design.

    Essentially nothing of Denmark Hall’s original interior remains, but if you stand outside and squint your eyes, you can still make out the form of Norrman’s design.

    While Candler Hall received a beautiful renovation in 2003,81 the University of Georgia has shown little appetite to renovate its less-attractive sibling, which could still be accurately described as “drab old Denmark Hall.”

    The College of Environment + Design’s 2025 strategic plan included a vague goal to “renovate Denmark Hall as a cutting-edge teaching facility… funds permitting.”82

    That doesn’t sound very promising, does it?

    Gallery

    Dentilled cornice on the first-floor facade of Denmark Hall, Athens, Georgia
    Dentilled cornice on the facade of Denmark Hall, Athens, Georgia
    First-floor double window on the facade of Denmark Hall, Athens, Georgia
    First-floor double window on the facade of Denmark Hall, Athens, Georgia
    Keystone design and a window mullion on Denmark Hall, Athens, Georgia
    Keystone design and a window mullion on Denmark Hall, Athens, Georgia
    Cornice on the facade of Denmark Hall, Athens, Georgia
    Cornice on the facade of Denmark Hall, Athens, Georgia
    Pilaster and dentilled cornice on the facade of Denmark Hall, Athens, Georgia
    Pilaster and dentilled cornice on the facade of Denmark Hall, Athens, Georgia

    References

    1. “Plan of University Buildings Complete”. The Atlanta Constitution, April 24, 1901, p. 1. ↩︎
    2. “Named in Honor of B.A. Denmark.” The Athens Daily Banner, June 22, 1901, p. 3. ↩︎
    3. “Plans Accepted by the Trustees”. The Athens Daily Banner, April 13, 1901, p. 3. ↩︎
    4. “Profound Gloom on the Campus”. The Athens Daily Banner, June 14, 1901, p. 3. ↩︎
    5. The Twenty-Ninth Annual Report from the Department of Education to the General Assembly of the State of Georgia. Atlanta: The Franklin Printing and Publishing Company, 1901 ↩︎
    6. “To Discuss Buildings.” Savannah Morning News, April 12, 1901, p. 10. ↩︎
    7. “Plan of University Buildings Complete”. The Atlanta Constitution, April 24, 1901, p. 1. ↩︎
    8. “Denmark Hall.” The Red and Black, April 28, 1903, p. 2. ↩︎
    9. “Discussing New Plans For New Buildings.” The Athens Daily Banner (Athens, Georgia), March 2, 1901, p. 4. ↩︎
    10. “Norrman’s Plan Accepted.” The Morning News (Savannah, Georgia), February 11, 1896, p. 9. ↩︎
    11. “School Contract Awarded.” The Morning News (Savannah, Georgia), March 13, 1900, p. 8. ↩︎
    12. The Twenty-Ninth Annual Report from the Department of Education to the General Assembly of the State of Georgia. Atlanta: The Franklin Printing and Publishing Company, 1901 ↩︎
    13. “Plan of University Buildings Complete”. The Atlanta Constitution, April 24, 1901, p. 1. ↩︎
    14. ibid. ↩︎
    15. “Dwellings.” The Engineering Record, Volume 41, no. 12 (March 24, 1900), p. 287. ↩︎
    16. Doster, Gary L. A Postcard History of Athens, Georgia. Athens, Georgia: Athens Historical Society (2002). ↩︎
    17. “Notice to Contractors.” Athens Daily Banner, April 23, 1901, p. 3. ↩︎
    18. McManus, Rebecca, Alexandra Green, and Sophia Latz. Denmark Hall Historic Structure Report. ↩︎
    19. “Board of Trustees Make Full Report”. The Atlanta Constitution, June 17, 1901, p. 2. ↩︎
    20. “The Program for Today.” The Athens Daily Banner, June 14, 1901, p. 4. ↩︎
    21. “Work Resumed on Students Mess Hall.” The Weekly Banner (Athens, Georgia), July 19, 1901, p. 7. ↩︎
    22. “University Opens Again on Jan. 7.” The Weekly Banner (Athens, Georgia), January 3, 1902, p. 1. ↩︎
    23. “For Sons of Farmers”. The Oglethorpe Echo (Lexington, Georgia), November 22, 1901, p. 8. ↩︎
    24. “Mrs. Kinnebrew To Be In Charge”. The Weekly Banner (Athens, Georgia), September 13, 1901, p. 7. ↩︎
    25. “Editorial Notes”. The Red and Black (Athens, Georgia), March 14, 1908, p. 2. ↩︎
    26. “Athens.” The Jackson Herald (Jefferson, Georgia), March 12, 1908, p. 4. ↩︎
    27. The Hartwell Sun (Hartwell, Georgia), March 13, 1908, p. 6. ↩︎
    28. “Editorial Notes”. The Red and Black (Athens, Georgia), March 14, 1908, p. 2. ↩︎
    29. “Flames Broke Out In Denmark Hall”. The Athens Banner, April 9, 1910, p. 1. ↩︎
    30. “University Letter.” The Danielsville Monitor (Danielsville, Georgia), November 28, 1902, p. 2. ↩︎
    31. “Denmark Hall.” The Red and Black, April 28, 1903, p. 2. ↩︎
    32. “School Gets $75,000”. The Clayton Tribune (Clayton, Georgia), June 18, 1908, p. 1. ↩︎
    33. “A Large Equipment Necessary.” The Athens Banner, October 5, 1911, p. 4. ↩︎
    34. “Denmark Hall too Small”. The Athens Daily Herald. October 12, 1914, p. 5. ↩︎
    35. “Feeding Summer School Attend Ants Expertly”. The Athens Daily Banner, July 8, 1921, p. 5. ↩︎
    36. “Memorial Hall Is Dedicated Tuesday to Georgia’s Dead.” The Banner-Herald (Athens, Georgia), June 17, 1924, p. 1. ↩︎
    37. “Cafeteria Annex Opened at Denmark Dining Hall”. The Red and Black (Athens, Georgia). October 2, 1936, p. 10. ↩︎
    38. “Registration Reaches 2,815 for Fall Term To Break Old Mark”. The Red and Black (Athens, Georgia), October 2, 1936, p. 1. ↩︎
    39. McManus, Rebecca, Alexandra Green, and Sophia Latz. Denmark Hall Historic Structure Report. ↩︎
    40. “Cafeteria Annex Opened at Denmark Dining Hall”. The Red and Black (Athens, Georgia). October 2, 1936, p. 10. ↩︎
    41. “Building Program Will Be Completed In About 60 Days”. The Red and Black (Athens, Georgia), September 27, 1940, p. 19. ↩︎
    42. “Views Around Georgia”. The Red and Black (Athens, Georgia), November 6, 1936, p. 4. ↩︎
    43. “House Mothers Add ‘Home Atmosphere’ In Joe Brown and Milledge Dormitories”. The Red and Black (Athens, Georgia), September 29, 1939, p. 16. ↩︎
    44. “Cafeteria Is Seeking Home Atmosphere”. The Red and Black (Athens, Georgia), September 29, 1939, p. 17. ↩︎
    45. Abney, George Jr. “Professor-Gardener Proves Drab Spaces Can Be Useful”. Athens Banner-Herald, September 22, 1948, p. 7. ↩︎
    46. “Denmark Hall Enlarged to Feed Armed Forces”. The Red and Black (Athens, Georgia), March 6, 1942, p. 1. ↩︎
    47. “Additions Being Made to ‘Beanery’”. The Red and Black (Athens, Georgia), July 9, 1943, p. 1. ↩︎
    48. Marshall, George. “Campus Construction Now Under Full Speed”. The Red and Black (Athens, Georgia), July 31, 1942, p. 1. ↩︎
    49. “Denmark Hall Enlarged to Feed Armed Forces”. The Red and Black (Athens, Georgia), March 6, 1942, p. 1. ↩︎
    50. “Additions Being Made to ‘Beanery’”. The Red and Black (Athens, Georgia), July 9, 1943, p. 1. ↩︎
    51. “Signal Corps School Here Is To Be Closed September 24”. Athens Banner-Herald, July 11, 1943, p. 1. ↩︎
    52. “Denmark Hall Opens in Fall For Students”. The Red and Black (Athens, Georgia), August 13, 1943, p. 1. ↩︎
    53. “Denmark Hall”. The Red and Black (Athens, Georgia), August 13, 1943, p. 2. ↩︎
    54. “Denmark Hall Opens in Fall For Students”. The Red and Black (Athens, Georgia), August 13, 1943, p. 1. ↩︎
    55. “$4,820,000 Appropriation Needed by University For Post-War Buildings”. The Red and Black (Athens, Georgia), July 27, 1945, p. 1. ↩︎
    56. “A Step Forward”. The Red and Black (Athens, Georgia), July 27, 1945, p. 2. ↩︎
    57. Abney, George Jr. “Professor-Gardener Proves Drab Spaces Can Be Useful”. Athens Banner-Herald, September 22, 1948, p. 7. ↩︎
    58. The Red and Black (Athens, Georgia), October 1, 1948, p. 8. ↩︎
    59. “Landscape Architecture Graduates Plan Departmental Homecoming Next Fall.” The Red and Black (Athens, Georgia), May 27, 1938, p. 2. ↩︎
    60. “Alumni To Move To Lumpkin House”. The Red and Black (Athens, Georgia), May 23, 1957, p. 3. ↩︎
    61. The Red and Black (Athens, Georgia), October 1, 1948, p. 8. ↩︎
    62. “Student Co-Op To Move Into Denmark Basement”. The Red and Black (Athens, Georgia), October 21, 1954, p. 1. ↩︎
    63. “Co-Op To Move Monday Into Denmark Basement”. The Red and Black (Athens, Georgia), January 7, 1955, p. 1. ↩︎
    64. “House Sub-Committee Reports On University Inspection Tour”, Athens Banner-Herald, January 21, 1952, p. 2. ↩︎
    65. Bradford, Bob. “Soup a la Fly”. The Red and Black (Athens, Georgia), January 7, 1954, p. 4. ↩︎
    66. Branch, Roger. “Let’s Eat–Better”. The Red and Black (Athens, Georgia), May 20, 1954, p. 4. ↩︎
    67. “Student Union Re-Opening Hailed By Early Christening Ceremonies”. The Red and Black (Athens, Georgia), March 23, 1956, p. 1. ↩︎
    68. “Denmark Dining Hall Ends After 50 Years Service”. Athens Banner-Herald, March 13, 1956, p. 1. ↩︎
    69. “New Dining Hall Approved”. The Red and Black (Athens, Georgia), December 12, 1952, p. 1. ↩︎
    70. “New Building Program To Include Arts Center”. The Red and Black (Athens, Georgia), May 5, 1955, p. 11. ↩︎
    71. “Landscape Architecture Uses Old Colonial Home”. The Red and Black (Athens, Georgia), March 8, 1956, p. 14. ↩︎
    72. “University Prepares Denmark for Landscape Architecture”. The Red and Black (Athens, Georgia), October 12, 1956, p. 2. ↩︎
    73. “Open House Set Tomorrow At Landscape Architecture”. Athens Banner-Herald, October 15, 1957, p. 1. ↩︎
    74. “Red and Black Photographer Views Parking Situation”. The Red and Black (Athens, Georgia), October 19, 1951, p. 1. ↩︎
    75. “Open House Set Tomorrow At Landscape Architecture”. Athens Banner-Herald, October 15, 1957, p. 1. ↩︎
    76. “Final Co-op Plans Receive Approval”. The Red and Black (Athens, Georgia), February 28, 1957, p. 1. ↩︎
    77. “Old ‘Beanery’ Now Modern Campus Landscape Building”. Athens Banner-Herald, September 13, 1957, p. 1. ↩︎
    78. “Denmark Renovation To Expand Facilities For Crowded Co-Op”. The Red and Black (Athens, Georgia), January 17, 1957, p. 1. ↩︎
    79. Taylor, Pat. “Old Co-Op Becomes A Victim of Growth”. The Red and Black (Athens, Georgia), September 20, 1963, p. 1. ↩︎
    80. “Landscape Architecture Building Opens Oct. 6 With Formal Ceremonies”. Athens Banner-Herald, October 5, 1964, p. 1. ↩︎
    81. University of Georgia Historic Preservation Master Plan, October 2019 ↩︎
    82. University of Georgia College of Environment + Design 2025 Strategic Plan ↩︎

    Additional Reading

    1. “Bids for the New Buildings.” The Red and Black, February 2, 1901, p. 3.
    2. “Trustees Will Select Plans.” The Athens Daily Banner, March 1, 1901, p. 4.
    3. “Will Pass Upon the Plans”. The Atlanta Constitution, March 1, 1901, p. 2.
    4. “Discussing Plans for New Buildings.” The Athens Daily Banner, March 2, 1901, p. 4.
    5. “Dormitory and Mess Hall”. The Atlanta Constitution, March 2, 1901, p. 2.
    6. “Committee Accepts Plans”. The Atlanta Constitution, March 3, 1901, p. 4.
    7. ‘”Building Committee” Transact Important Business.’ The Red and Black, March 9, 1901, p. 1.
    8. “Plans for Buildings Were Discussed Today.” The Atlanta Journal, April 6, 1901, p. 5.
    9. “New Dormitory Plans Completed”. The Atlanta Journal, April 8, 1901, p. 5.
    10. “Board of Visitors Make Annual Report”. The Athens Banner, June 14, 1906, p. 9.
    11. “Increase”. Athens Banner, September 19, 1907, p. 1.
    12. “The University Needs Dormitories.” The Athens Banner, October 4, 1907, p. 4.
    13. “Coming Appropriation Bill”. The Red and Black (Athens, Georgia), June 17, 1913, p. 8.
    14. “University of Georgia and Its Great Work”. The Athens Daily Herald. August 13, 1914, p. 10.
    15. “A Pressing Need”. The Athens Banner, September 19, 1916, p. 4.
    16. Drewry, John E. “Space Problem At University Acute”. The Athens Daily Banner, August 4, 1921, p. 5.
    17. “Stingy Legislature Helps Make University a School for Rich Men’s Sons Only”. The Banner-Herald (Athens, Georgia), October 3, 1923, p. 1.
    18. “Forecast Large Enrollment at the University”, The Athens Banner, September 17, 1921, p. 8.
    19. Many Women Will Attend University”. Athens Daily Herald, September 19, 1921, p. 5.
    20. Reynolds, Charles. “University Prepares for Start Of 136th Annual Session Sept. 17”. Athens Banner-Herald, August 30, 1936, p. 1.
    21. “What’s Rotten in Denmark”. The Red and Black (Athens, Georgia), October 27, 1944, p. 4.
    22. “Letters to the editor”. The Red and Black (Athens, Georgia), October 27, 1944, p. 4.
  • John Blackmar Residence (1910) – Columbus, Georgia

    Henrietta C. Dozier. John Blackmar Residence (circa 1910 renovation and expansion). Columbus, Georgia.  
    Henrietta C. Dozier. John Blackmar Residence (circa 1910 renovation and expansion). Columbus, Georgia.1 2 3
    Looking at the John Blackmar Residence from the southwest
    Looking at the John Blackmar Residence from the southwest
    Dormers and cornice on the John Blackmar Residence, Columbus, Georgia
    Dormers and cornice on the John Blackmar Residence, Columbus, Georgia
    Eaves and cornice on the John Blackmar Residence, Columbus, Georgia
    Eaves and cornice on the John Blackmar Residence, Columbus, Georgia
    Front door of the John Blackmar Residence, Columbus, Georgia
    Front door of the John Blackmar Residence, Columbus, Georgia
    Corinthian capital on the John Blackmar Residence, Columbus, Georgia
    Corinthian capital on the John Blackmar Residence, Columbus, Georgia
    Enclosed porch on the John Blackmar Residence, Columbus, Georgia
    Enclosed porch on the John Blackmar Residence, Columbus, Georgia
    Looking between columns at a pilaster on the John Blackmar Residence, Columbus, Georgia
    Looking between columns at a pilaster on the John Blackmar Residence, Columbus, Georgia
    Dormer and chimney on the south elevation of the John Blackmar Residence, Columbus, Georgia
    Dormer and chimney on the south elevation of the John Blackmar Residence, Columbus, Georgia
    Consoles over the front entrance of the John Blackmar Residence, Columbus, Georgia
    Consoles over the front entrance of the John Blackmar Residence, Columbus, Georgia
    Balcony on the front porch of the John Blackmar Residence, Columbus, Georgia
    Balcony on the front porch of the John Blackmar Residence, Columbus, Georgia
    Railing and console for the second-floor balcony of the John Blackmar Residence, Columbus, Georgia
    Railing and console for the second-floor balcony of the John Blackmar Residence, Columbus, Georgia
    Looking between columns at the enclosed porch on the John Blackmar Residence, Columbus, Georgia
    Looking between columns at the enclosed porch on the John Blackmar Residence, Columbus, Georgia
    Cornice, frieze, and Doric capitals on the porte cochere of the John Blackmar Residence, Columbus, Georgia
    Cornice, frieze, and Doric capitals on the porte cochere of the John Blackmar Residence, Columbus, Georgia

    References

    1. “Personal and Incidental.” The Columbus Enquirer-Sun (Columbus, Georgia), October 17, 1909, p. 4. ↩︎
    2. “Wanted–Driver and Butler.” (classified advertisement) The Columbus Ledger (Columbus, Georgia), September 25, 1910, p. 2. ↩︎
    3. “Mrs. Blackmon’s Bridge Party”. The Columbus Enquirer-Sun (Columbus, Georgia), March 5, 1911, p. 2. ↩︎
  • Samford Hall, Auburn University (1888) – Auburn, Alabama

    Bruce & Morgan. Samford Hall (1888), Auburn University. Auburn, Alabama.
    Bruce & Morgan. Samford Hall (1888), Auburn University. Auburn, Alabama.1 2 3 4 5
    Looking up at Samford Hall, Auburn, Alabama
    Looking up at Samford Hall, Auburn, Alabama
    Clock tower on Samford Hall, Auburn, Alabama
    Clock tower on Samford Hall, Auburn, Alabama
    Gable on the facade of Samford Hall, Auburn, Alabama
    Gable on the facade of Samford Hall, Auburn, Alabama
    Center bay on the facade of Samford Hall, Auburn, Alabama
    Center bay on the facade of Samford Hall, Auburn, Alabama
    Looking at the northeast corner of Samford Hall, Auburn, Alabama
    Looking at the northeast corner of Samford Hall, Auburn, Alabama
    Second-floor windows on the facade of Samford Hall, Auburn, Alabama
    Second-floor windows on the facade of Samford Hall, Auburn, Alabama
    Second- and third-floor windows on the facade of Samford Hall, Auburn, Alabama
    Second- and third-floor windows on the facade of Samford Hall, Auburn, Alabama
    Gable dormer on the facade of Samford Hall, Auburn, Alabama
    Gable dormer on the facade of Samford Hall, Auburn, Alabama
    Tower with a belvedere on the facade of Samford Hall, Auburn, Alabama
    Tower with a belvedere on the facade of Samford Hall, Auburn, Alabama
    Eaves, brackets, and terracotta frieze on a tower of Samford Hall, Auburn, Alabama
    Eaves, brackets, and terracotta frieze on a tower of Samford Hall, Auburn, Alabama
    Terracotta ornamental figure and a second-floor window on the facade of Samford Hall, Auburn, Alabama
    Terracotta ornamental figure and a second-floor window on the facade of Samford Hall, Auburn, Alabama
    Windows on the clock tower of Samford Hall, Auburn, Alabama
    Windows on the clock tower of Samford Hall, Auburn, Alabama
    Third-floor windows and the gable on the center bay of Samford Hall, Auburn, Alabama
    Third-floor windows and the gable on the center bay of Samford Hall, Auburn, Alabama
    Terracotta tympanum and roof finial on the facade of Samford Hall, Auburn, Alabama
    Terracotta tympanum and roof finial on the facade of Samford Hall, Auburn, Alabama
    Second- and third-floor windows on the northeast corner of Samford Hall, Auburn, Alabama
    Second- and third-floor windows on the northeast corner of Samford Hall, Auburn, Alabama
    Terracotta inscription over the northeast entrance of Samford Hall, Auburn, Alabama
    Terracotta inscription over the northeast entrance of Samford Hall, Auburn, Alabama
    Terracotta spandrel on the facade of Samford Hall, Auburn, Alabama
    Terracotta spandrel on the facade of Samford Hall, Auburn, Alabama
    Tower with a belvedere on the facade of Samford Hall, Auburn, Alabama
    Tower with a belvedere on the facade of Samford Hall, Auburn, Alabama
    Second- and third-floor windows with spandrel on the facade of Samford Hall, Auburn, Alabama
    Second- and third-floor windows with spandrel on the facade of Samford Hall, Auburn, Alabama
    Gable dormer on the facade of Samford Hall, Auburn, Alabama
    Gable dormer on the facade of Samford Hall, Auburn, Alabama
    Terracotta ornamental figure on the facade of Samford Hall, Auburn, Alabama
    Terracotta ornamental figure on the facade of Samford Hall, Auburn, Alabama
    Terracotta window spandrels on the facade of Samford Hall, Auburn, Alabama
    Terracotta window spandrels on the facade of Samford Hall, Auburn, Alabama
    Southeast entrance of Samford Hall, Auburn, Alabama
    Southeast entrance of Samford Hall, Auburn, Alabama
    Weather vane on the bell tower of Samford Hall, Auburn, Alabama
    Weather vane on the bell tower of Samford Hall, Auburn, Alabama
    Column on the southeast entrance of Samford Hall, Auburn, Alabama
    Column on the southeast entrance of Samford Hall, Auburn, Alabama
    Arch over the southeast entrance of Samford Hall, Auburn, Alabama
    Arch over the southeast entrance of Samford Hall, Auburn, Alabama
    Eaves and cornice on the northeast corner of Samford Hall, Auburn, Alabama
    Eaves and cornice on the northeast corner of Samford Hall, Auburn, Alabama
    First-floor and basement windows on the facade of Samford Hall, Auburn, Alabama
    First-floor and basement windows on the facade of Samford Hall, Auburn, Alabama
    Northeast entrance of Samford Hall, Auburn, Alabama
    Northeast entrance of Samford Hall, Auburn, Alabama
    Cornice and terracotta frieze on the facade of Samford Hall, Auburn, Alabama
    Cornice and terracotta frieze on the facade of Samford Hall, Auburn, Alabama
    Inscription over the southeast entrance of Samford Hall, Auburn, Alabama
    Inscription over the southeast entrance of Samford Hall, Auburn, Alabama
    Terracotta column and capital on the southeast entrance of Samford Hall, Auburn, Alabama
    Terracotta column and capital on the southeast entrance of Samford Hall, Auburn, Alabama
    Pedestal at the northeast entrance of Samford Hall, Auburn, Alabama
    Pedestal at the northeast entrance of Samford Hall, Auburn, Alabama
    Looking at the south elevation of Samford Hall from the southwest
    Looking at the south elevation of Samford Hall from the southwest
    Cornerstone of Samford Hall, Auburn, Alabama
    Cornerstone of Samford Hall, Auburn, Alabama
    Finial on a tower of Samford Hall, Auburn, Alabama
    Finial on a tower of Samford Hall, Auburn, Alabama
    Towers on Samford Hall
    Towers on Samford Hall, Auburn, Alabama

    References

    1. “Auburn.” The Montgomery Daily Advertiser (Montgomery, Alabama), August 3, 1887, p. 2. ↩︎
    2. “Technical Education in Alabama.” The Atlanta Constitution, August 24, 1887, p. 8. ↩︎
    3. “Notice to Contractors.” The Montgomery Daily Advertiser (Montgomery, Alabama), September 20, 1887, p. 8, ↩︎
    4. “Auburn.” The Weekly Advertiser (Montgomery, Alabama), June 14, 1888, p. 1. ↩︎
    5. Building cornerstone. ↩︎
  • Relic Signs: Dixie Drive-In – Greenwood, South Carolina

    Dixie Drive-In (1959). 600 Montague Avenue, Greenwood, South Carolina.
    Dixie Drive-In (1959). 600 Montague Avenue, Greenwood, South Carolina.1

    I’ve passed through Greenwood, South Carolina, countless times on back-and-forth trips between Abbeville and Newberry, two towns that contain surviving works by G.L. Norrman.

    On my last pass, I was happy to find this well-preserved sign for the Dixie Drive-In, which apparently debuted with the restaurant’s opening in 1959.

    This is a true Googie relic, which is quite rare in the Deep South. Sorry, I ain’t calling it Dixie.

    Location of Dixie Drive-In

    References

    1. “Announcing the Grand Opening of the Dixie Drive-In” (advertisement). The Index-Journal (Greenwood, South Carolina), October 17, 1959, p. 3. ↩︎
  • A Carolina Quartet

    G.L. Norrman. Newberry Hotel (1879). Newberry, South Carolina.
    G.L. Norrman. Newberry Hotel (1879). Newberry, South Carolina.
    G.L. Norrman. City Hall and Opera House (1882). Newberry, South Carolina.
    G.L. Norrman. City Hall and Opera House (1882). Newberry, South Carolina.
    G.L. Norrman. Eureka Hotel (1903). Abbeville, South Carolina.
    G.L. Norrman. Eureka Hotel (1903). Abbeville, South Carolina.
    G.L. Norrman. Samuel McGowan House (1889). Abbeville, South Carolina.
    G.L. Norrman. Samuel McGowan House (1889). Abbeville, South Carolina.
  • M.A. Hale Residence (1892) – Atlanta

    J.W. Golucke. M.A. Hale Residence (1892). Inman Park, Atlanta.
    J.W. Golucke. M.A. Hale Residence (1892). Inman Park, Atlanta.

    This Queen Anne-style home is Atlanta’s only known extant work designed by J.W. Golucke (1857-1907),1 2 a shyster carpenter who built a career on smooth talk and grand delusions of being a legitimate architect.

    A thoroughly fraudulent and incompetent designer, Golucke was one of several “Atlanta architects” of his era who did little actual work in the city, primarily peddling their shoddy plans to poor, rural communities that didn’t know any better.

    If you travel through backwoods Georgia, you’ll find more than a dozen county courthouses by Golucke’s design3—all of them terrible.

    Golucke fittingly died in a southwest Georgia jail cell while being held on charges of forgery,4 weeks after attempting suicide under the influence of drugs.5 6 His work is not celebrated here.

    Gallery

    Gable on the facade of the M.A. Hale Residence, Atlanta
    Gable on the facade of the M.A. Hale Residence, Atlanta
    Cornice and corbels on the M.A. Hale Residence, Atlanta
    Cornice and corbels on the M.A. Hale Residence, Atlanta
    Second-floor bay window on the M.A. Hale Residence, Atlanta
    Second-floor bay window on the M.A. Hale Residence, Atlanta
    Porch post and ornamentation on the facade of the M.A. Hale Residence, Atlanta
    Porch post and fretwork ornamentation on the facade of the M.A. Hale Residence, Atlanta
    Porch pediment and ornamentation on the facade of the M.A. Hale Residence, Atlanta
    Porch pediment and fretwork ornamentation on the facade of the M.A. Hale Residence, Atlanta
    Oval window and porch post on the facade of the M.A. Hale Residence, Atlanta
    Oval window and porch post on the facade of the M.A. Hale Residence, Atlanta
    Fretwork ornamentation on the M.A. Hale Residence, Atlanta
    Fretwork ornamentation on the M.A. Hale Residence, Atlanta

    References

    1. “Atlanta’s Growth.” The Atlanta Constitution, July 13, 1892, p. 7. ↩︎
    2. “Mrs. M.A. Hale’s Death.” The Atlanta Constitution, March 29, 1896, p. 6. ↩︎
    3. J.W. Golucke – Wikipedia ↩︎
    4. “Death Takes J.W. Golucke”. The Atlanta Constitution, October 28, 1907, p. 6. ↩︎
    5. “J.W. Golucke Tries to Take His Life in Newton Jail”. The Atlanta Journal, October 7, 1907, p. 1. ↩︎
    6. “Atlanta Man Tries Suicide”. The Atlanta Constitution, October 8, 1907, p. 9. ↩︎