Knox Heritage Summer 2007 Quarterly

ADVOCATING FOR THE PRESERVATION OF PLACES AND STRUCTURES WITH HISTORIC OR CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE.

Every year in May, National Preservation Month, 12 months. Preservation strategies are developed Knox Heritage announces The Fragile Fifteen, its for each site on the list and can include working KNOXVILLE’S list of the most endangered historic buildings and with current property owners, government offi cials, places, in order to educate the public and local citizens and/or potential new owners to preserve leaders about the plight of signifi cant historic these important parts of Knox Countyʼs heritage. resources. Knox Heritage is committed to acting as an advocate FRAGILE The historic places included on the list are selected for the endangered properties we identify each year. by the Knox Heritage Board of Directors from We invite the community to join us in our efforts to nominations received from members of Knox save our endangered heritage through advocacy and Heritage and the general public. The list provides a action. More information about this yearʼs Fragile FIFTEEN work plan for the organization for the next Fifteen can be found at www.knoxheritage.org. 1. The McClung Warehouses the buildings into loft and retail on both sides of the river, linked by interchange with I-40, combined 501–525 W. Jackson Avenue space, thus improving the tax base ferry crossings. Francis Alexander with increasing development for all Knox County residents. Ramsey settled in this corridor and pressure from Sevier County, Only three buildings remain from A structural analysis of the the 1797 Ramsey House still stands threaten the survival of one of the Feb. 7th inferno that destroyed remaining buildings conducted at today. This area includes some of Knox Countyʼs signature places. We half of the McClung Warehouse the request of the City of Knoxville call on Knox County government complex. This fi re illustrated the has revealed they are sound and leaders to act with haste to develop suitable for redevelopment. We innovative measures that protect call upon KCDC and the City of this endangered treasure in east Knoxville to facilitate securing a Knox County. viable developer for the remaining buildings immediately. This must 3. University of be the last “great downtown fi re” Conference Center of this generation and only decisive French Broad River Corridor (formerly Richʼs Dept. Store) action by property owners and local Knox Countyʼs best architectural 600 Henley Street McClung Warehouses leaders can ensure that. examples that tell the story of a worst-case scenario for vacant and river that acted as a highway for This Mid-Century Modern blighted historic buildings. Knoxville 2. French Broad River Corridor commerce and social interaction. commercial building with structural lost warehouses signifi cant to Because of its relative isolation and understanding our cityʼs important The French Broad River was one lack of urban infrastructure, the role in the late 19th century as a of the earliest settlement paths in French Broad River corridor retained wholesale center. Our community Knox County. By the mid 1780ʼs, its historic places, bucolic scenery, lost the opportunity to redevelop homes and industries were located breathtaking views and vistas. Knox County Commissionʼs • Knox Heritage Happenings ...... (page 2) recent approval of rezonings that • Preservation Briefs & Calendar ...... (page 3) allow industrial and commercial • TN ASID Helps to Restore America ...... (page 6) development at the Midway Road UT Conference Center • Meet Our New Development Director ...... (page 6)

INSIDE • National Trust Partnersʼ Spring Retreat ...... (page 7) continued on page 4 Knox Heritage Happenings Board of Directors DOUBLE DONATION WITH FRIENDS OF BARBER HOUSES CHALLENGE GRANT 2007 Officers Knox Heritage aims to raise $150,000 for the To participate in The Friends of the Barber Houses Dorothy Stair • President Restore America project, and we need your help Challenge Grant, send a tax-deductible donation by Scott Schimmel • Vice President to reach that goal! Gifts of any amount will help personal check to Knox Heritage and note “Barber John Craig • Vice President restore these historic Parkridge homes back to their Challenge Grant” on the envelope or check memo Scott Fugate • Treasurer original grandeur. line. Or, call the Knox Heritage offi ce with your credit Katie King • Secretary card information and mention that your gift is to An anonymous donor has offered Knox Heritage be applied directly to the Barber Houses Challenge David Anderson this challenge: the donor will match dollar-for-dollar Grant. The donor is offering this matching grant until Barbara Apking up to $10,000 all donations directed to the Restore December 31, 2007, so please donʼt delay. Double Wayne Blasius Angelyn Campbell Schultz America George Barber houses. This is a chance for your dollarʼs value and help Knox Heritage meet this Pamela Chips Knox Heritage members and all friends of historic exciting challenge by becoming part of the Restore John Conley preservation to join together and make a difference! America project! David Dewhirst Beth Eason SUMMER SUPPERS PHOTOS AVAILABLE Amy Gibson, Ph.D. Hancock Photography, the offi cial photographer of You can purchase any photo shown. A portion of the Marianne Greene the 2007 Summer Suppers, has pictures from each proceeds from sales will be donated to Knox Heritage. Brett Grimm event available online. Visit Hancock Photography at This will continue for the remainder of this yearʼs Mary Holbrook Lorie Huff http://www.hancockphoto.com/recentlife.htm and Summer Suppers series, so if the supper youʼre Lee Ingram scroll down to the bottom of the page to access each attending hasnʼt happened yet, check back for Dr. Breese Johnson supperʼs photos. You will be asked for a password updates. Thanks to Kevin and Sandie Hancock for Annette Lindstrom to view the photos and the password is: supper1. their terrifi c pictures of these parties! Gay Lyons Sean Martin SPEND A WEEKEND IN THE ATTIC WITH KNOX HERITAGE & HGTV’S TIM LUKE Cran Montgomery Phyllis Y. Nichols Have you been wondering what that family heirloom, Tickets for Fridayʼs Finbarr Saunders stashed away between furniture blankets or in a ʻCocktails in the Monte Stanley shoebox, is worth? Are you ready to bid on some Atticʼ are $75 Lynne P. Sullivan, Ph.D. not-so-standard auction items that pay tribute East per person for Becky Wade Tennesseeʼs rich cultural traditions and pastimes? Knox Heritage Mary Whaley, Ph.D. Are you looking for a fun activity with great food and members or $100 entertainment at a historic downtown venue? Well, for non-members. Honorary Board Members we have the perfect solution, and itʼs a benefi t event Purchase tickets now by visiting our web site at www. Joan Allen for Knox Heritage too! knoxheritage.org or calling the offi ce at 523-8008. Glenn Bullock Steve Cotham Randall De Ford HGTV, Dewhirst Properties and Hancock Photography On Saturday, October 13, from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m., Matt Edens present Knox Heritageʼs “Weekend in the Attic” antique appraisers Tim Luke and Greg Strahm will be Kristopher Kendrick featuring HGTVʼs Cash in the Attic host Tim Luke on on hand to offer verbal appraisals for your treasured Mike Fowler Friday and Saturday, October 12 & 13, at the items. Pay just $10 per item (limit 4 per person) Doug McKamey L&N Station in . Sponsorships are to get an idea of the value of those pieces proudly Pat Roddy still available; call KH at 523-8008 for information. displayed in your home—or crowding your closets. Appraisals are given on a fi rst come, fi rst served General Counsel The weekend begins with ʻCocktails in the Atticʼ on basis, so arrive early. Please note that no guns, Tom McAdams Friday, October 12 at 7 p.m. Enjoy live music, heavy knives, coins or stamps will be appraised. Appraisals Staff hors dʼoeuvres, wine, and a surprise signature will not be televised, and no written documentation Kim Trent • Executive Director cocktail while bidding on the exclusive auction items will be provided. Becky Hancock • Development Director and destinations that highlight our regionʼs culture, Hollie Cook • Program Assistant/Research arts, and leisure activities. Tim Luke will be the All proceeds of Weekend in the Attic support Knox Margaret S.C. Walker • Newsletter auctioneer for the items to be purchased and also Heritageʼs mission. Polish your silver—and your will provide behind-the-scenes insights into HGTVʼs dancing shoes—and make plans now to attend this popular program, Cash in the Attic. fun event! 2 PRESERVATION BRIEFS Permit Fees Waived for Qualifying Residential Projects within the Frost also mentioned the resolution is “quasi-experimental,” with the possibility of Empowerment Zone its being expanded to other residences within the H-1, IH-1, and NC-1 overlays, but outside the Empowerment Zone. On July 17, Knoxville City Council approved a resolution allowing for the waiver of plan review and building permit fees for qualifying projects in the Historic Overlay THC Names New Executive Director (H-1), Infi ll Historic Overlay (IH-1), and Neighborhood Conservation Overlay (NC-1) Districts within the Knoxville Empowerment Zone. This development E. Patrick McIntyre Jr. became executive director of the Tennessee Historical incentive intends to encourage rehabilitation and new construction of owner- Commission on March 19, 2007. Formerly, he served four-and-one-half years occupied, single-family homes in these areas. This resolution affects the First, as the executive director of the Tennessee Preservation Trust (TPT), a non-profi t Fourth, and Sixth City Council Districts and includes a four-year sunset provision. preservation advocacy organization that is Tennesseeʼs Statewide Partner of the The resolution can be re-enacted or extended by Council. National Trust for Historic Preservation.

As work continues in core neighborhoods throughout the Empowerment Zone, A native of Montgomery, Alabama, McIntyre grew up there and in San Antonio, neighborhoods are strengthened by home ownership. This resolution represents Texas, a city known for its historic preservation efforts. Before coming to a clear signal that investment in owner-occupied residences in these critical Nashville in 2002 to work for TPT, McIntyre had served three years as Endangered areas is a city priority. The resolution was requested by the Department of Policy Properties Coordinator for the Alabama Historical Commission. Prior to that he Development and Councilmember Rob Frost. “Itʼs a pat on the back, saying that worked as a private consultant specializing in architectural surveys and historic [the city] believes in what youʼre doing and youʼve got our support,” Frost said. property nominations. In Montgomery, he served as president of a local historical society and as a board member and vice president of the Alabama Preservation For a residential home project to qualify for waiver of plan review and building Alliance, the statewide historic preservation organization. permit fees, the following criteria must be met: • Property must be located in an H-1, IH-1 or NC-1 overlay district within the In 1992, McIntyre was graduated from the University of Alabama with a B.A. in designated Knoxville Empowerment Zone area; Anthropology. Three years later, he earned an M.A. degree in Southern Studies • The project must involve the rehabilitation or new construction of an owner- from the University of Mississippi. He has been through several additional training occupied residential house; and courses, including the regular and advanced editions of the National Trustʼs • The project must meet the requirements of all applicable City codes and zoning Preservation Leadership Training Program. He is on the Board of Directors of regulations. Preservation Action (the national lobbying organization for preservation issues), and the Belmont Mansion Association in Nashville. He also serves on the Board of Bill Lyons, Director for Policy Development, noted that this fee waiver is a Advisors of Scenic Tennessee and the Tennessee Civil War Preservation Association. relatively small part of the cost of construction or rehabilitation. “It wonʼt make a difference in restoring a home or not, but itʼs a statement of how the city sees this Reprinted courtesy of The Courier, June 2007, a publication of the Tennessee as a good thing.” Historical Commission. CALENDAR VISIT OUR CALENDAR ONLINE AT WWW.KNOXHERITAGE.ORG FOR OTHER HISTORIC-MINDED EVENTS IN OUR COMMUNITY. SEPTEMBER 8 SEPTEMBER 15 SEPTEMBER 20 OCTOBER 12 & 13 OCTOBER 13 OCTOBER 27 & 28 NOVEMBER 2 Preservation Network George Barber Lunch & Learn Weekend in the Attic Preservation Network Restore America Downtown Time Warp Tea Room Trolley Tours The Foundry Time Warp Tea Room Open House Art & Architecture 1209 Central Avenue 10 am, 1 pm, & 3 pm 747 Worldʼs Fair Park Dr. 1209 Central Avenue Weekend and Home Tour 10:00 a.m. $10 mem/$15 non 11:30 a.m. 10:00 a.m. Tour Parkridge $10 mem/$15 non Neighborhood

Fourth & Gill A behind-the-scenes Steve Cotham, Knox Please see the Mark DeVol of DeVol Join us as we reveal Gather for a cocktail resident Melynda look at the Restore County Historian article on page 2 of Millwork speaks the work of the and take a walking Whetsel will share America houses & Manager of the this newsletter or about his work in Restore America tour of downtown her experience, and the restoration McClung Historical visit us online at custom windows, Design Team and Knoxville. Learn including challenges progress, followed Collection will speak www.knoxheritage. doors, and millwork celebrate the history little-known facts and triumphs, of by a guided trolley on topics covered org for more for historic houses. of the Parkridge and stories about restoring her historic tour featuring in his new book, information. This event is FREE Neighborhood. your favorite historic home. This event is many more George “The Great Smoky and open to the Watch for more structures. Watch for FREE and open to Barber houses. Call Mountains National public. details coming soon. more details coming the public. KH at 523-8008 for Park.” Call KH soon. reservations. at 523-8008 for reservations.

3 Knoxville’s Fragile Fifteen, continued... glazed tile, polychrome glazed After three years of community request for proposals. The chosen such as the McBee Trading Company brick, glass enclosed corner interest and action, culminating developer was unable to complete and J.H. Webb continued to occupy towers and undulating concrete in a request for redevelopment restoration in a timely manner. A the building until 1950. After that canopies has seen many uses, proposals, 2005 saw a local new owner has received a certifi cate but its signature elements remain developerʼs $3 million plan rejected of approriateness for the proposed intact. The beauty of the building by the Knox County Commission. restoration of the exterior. Knox is contained in its proportions and Since that time, under the Heritage encourages the current the interaction of its architectural leadership of Mayor Mike Ragsdale, owner to proceed with construction elements. The ca. 1954 building Knox County has maintained the immediately and ensure the received a design award from the building and issued a new request building is secured against America Institute of Architects when for proposals. Renaissance Property trespassing by vagrants. it was originally unveiled. Group is proposing to spend more than $5 million converting c. Oakwood Elementary School The character-defi ning features the school to offi ces for design 232 E. Churchwell Avenue of the building seem jarring professionals. when compared to the subtleties This Oakwood neighborhood icon 26 Market Square of earlier architectural periods, We urge the Knox County School is currently owned by the Knox but they refl ect the cutting edge System to work with Knox Heritage County School System and is used time the building housed several architectural thinking of the and the developer to overcome the for storage. The later addition is businesses, including a ladies mid-20th century and are the very last major hurdle – parking. Knox occupied by the Teacher Supply clothes shop, a beauty shop, a features that are increasingly Heritage calls upon South High record store and Mavis Shoes. valued today by preservationists alumni and citizens throughout the Market Square has experienced across the country. The University community to contact their Knox an incredible renaissance in recent of Tennessee occupies the building County School Board representatives years and what was once an and has invested heavily in the and interim Superintendent Roy empty, abandoned city center has interior rehabilitation. We call Mullins to support the preservation been transformed with specialty upon UT to improve maintenance of South High School. shopping, restaurants, residential of the exterior and insure any units, offi ces and a seemingly future construction preserve the b. Brownlow Elementary School Oakwood Elementary School endless parade of public events. architectural details of the building. 1305 Luttrell Street Depot. The Knox County School Until recently, the building at 26 System has moved most of its Market Square stood out as a 4. Vacant Historic Knox County activities out the building and has glaring exception to the rule. We School Buildings discussed plans to sell it for private are encouraged that the owners are a. South High School development. Due to the rapid moving forward with plans to repair 801 Tipton Avenue deterioration of the building, Knox and redevelop the building so it can Heritage calls upon the School once again contribute to the future South High was designed by noted Board to act immediately to either of downtown Knoxville. local architect Charles Barber. For make necessary repairs to the almost forty years, the building Brownlow Elementary School historic portion of the building 6. Walker-Sherrill House served as a junior high school and or put the building out to bid 9320 Kingston Pike then a high school until the last Brownlow Elementary School was for private development. Time is class was graduated in 1976. built in 1913 and enlarged in quickly running out for Oakwood The Walker-Sherrill House and its 1926. The Neo-classical style school School due to neglect and the 104-acre tract is owned by the heirs building was named for Col. John resulting water damage occurring in to the estate of Max Sherrill. The Bell Brownlow, who was one of the the building. two-story house was built developers of the neighborhoods ca. 1849 of handmade brick in the surrounding the school. 5. 26 Market Square Federal style with Georgian Revival infl uences. The house has been The school closed in 1996, and The A.L. Young Dry Goods Store included on Knox Countyʼs list of Knox County made it available occupied this building from 1880 South High School for redevelopment through a until 1900. Dry goods merchants continued on page 5

4 Knoxville’s Fragile Fifteen, cont’d... CORRECTION National Register eligible buildings Fort Higley and the 105 acres of land NASH HALL A UNIQUE MARRIAGE OF since the completion of the Historic around it are now listed for sale for GEORGIAN AND VICTORIAN STYLES Sites Survey in 1984. $3.8 million. Knox Heritage calls upon the owners of the property to In our spring 2007 newsletter, Knox Heritage reported formulate a plan that preserves this on the Patronʼs Party held at the home of UT President irreplaceable example of Knoxvilleʼs Dr. John D. Petersen and his wife, Carol. The article Civil War history. We call upon stated that the house, known as Nash Hall, “was Knoxville government leaders to proceed immediately to adopt historic dismantled and moved from its original site on west overlay zoning for the entire site, with Main Street when the federal government decided to the understanding that archeological build the post offi ce and federal building downtown.” Walker-Sherrill House exploration could reduce its boundaries We are pleased to report Andrews to a smaller size, allowing development A few alert and knowledgeable readers contacted Knox Properties of Atlanta plans to purchase on portions of the site that are not of Heritage with more accurate details. Although the story the site and restore the house as part similar importance. This will protect of the original homeʼs relocation is widely circulated, of its proposed mixed-use development. the site as well as the vistas seen from the Nashʼs Victorian house on the corner of Walnut and After working with Councilwoman downtown Knoxville. Main was destroyed. Only key interior elements were Barbara Pelot, neighbors adjacent to preserved and used in their new house on the property, and Knox Heritage, they 8. Knoxville College National Cherokee Boulevard. have announced their intention to Register Historic District protect the house with Historic Overlay 901 College Street Zoning (H-1) as part of their rezoning Dr. Walter Starnes Nash, a Knoxville surgeon, wanted a request. We look forward to seeing the Knoxville College was founded in 1875 Georgian house and was particularly interested in one house restored to its prominence on as part of the missionary effort of the designed by A.B. Baumann, Jr., for Benjamin Morton, Kingston Pike and welcoming a new United Presbyterian Church of North a banker, merchant, and civic leader. Nash approached generation of Knoxville residents. America to promote religious, moral Baumann with the intent of purchasing the existing and educational leadership among Morton plans at a reduced price. 7. Fort Higley freed men and women. Knoxville College has signifi cantly contributed to When Baumann respectfully declined, Nash went to Civil War battles often were not the educational and spiritual welfare Charles Barber of Barber McMurry and asked for a dependent on forts built with of the African-American population in spectacular Georgian design that would trump permanent construction, and this is Tennessee since 1875. especially true of Fort Higley, where Mortonʼs residence. temporary earthen trenches are the only visible reminders. From the Barber provided what Dr. Nash desired—but his wife earthworks on this Eva Nash, the founder of the Knoxville Womanʼs hill, Union soldiers commanded the Club, had her own ideas as well. Mrs. Nash insisted river and helped protect the southern that the familiar and ornate details of her glorious and western approaches to the city. Victorian home be saved. Barber surely knew that the The potential of these places to teach two styles had little in common, but he fulfi lled her important lessons to future generations Knoxville College National Register Historic District wishes. Beautiful woodwork such as fi replace mantels, and increase heritage tourism in our paneling, bookcases, massive columns, and a stairway area is being lost to redevelopment. The ten historic buildings at Knoxville are among the features that were placed in the College are a tribute to the creativity and resourcefulness of the student new house. body. While pursuing their education, students designed and constructed What resulted is a unique combination of elaborate these buildings using bricks they Victorian interiors enveloped in a stately Georgian manufactured at the campus. With residence. Thanks to the , which acquired Nash Hall for the presidentʼs residence, one of

Fort Higley Site continued on page 8 Knoxvilleʼs treasured historic homes will be preserved. 5 TN Chapter of American Society of Interior Designers Participates in Restore America

The Restore America houses on Washington from Barberʼs original plans and the appropriate Design and Historic Preservation and has done Avenue are changing daily now, with work styles of the time period while incorporating extensive research on color selections for houses rapidly progressing inside and out. In a few many modern conveniences and amenities. of this era. Daniel Smith, a student at Pellissippi months they will be completely returned to their State, is also part of the team. former glory and welcome new owners to the Ballard hopes to get as many local ASID affi liates Parkridge community. as possible to take part in the Restore America The TN Chapter of ASID has adopted the Restore Project. Other professionals guiding the design America Barber houses as its Community Service As those who have ever renovated a home are Randall De Ford of C. Randall De Ford Project for this year and will submit it as an or even a single room know, the countless Architecture; Dwane Dishner, Allied Member of entry in the national organizationʼs Professional decisions to be made on the design details can ASID and President of Dwane Dishner Designs; Awards competition. ASID bestows annual be overwhelming. For these George Barber and Robert Marlino of Smee+Busby Architects. honors in recognition of design excellence and houses, the Tennessee Chapter of the American Award-winning kitchen designer Ester Golightly, service to the Society. Society of Interior Designers (ASID) is taking ASID, will contribute her talents to the homesʼ the lead in the design decisions. Headed by TN kitchens. Golightly has been on several HGTV Make plans now to visit the Restore America Chapter of ASID President Susan Ballard, ASID programs and has been published in Signature George Barber houses during the weekend of of Smee+Busby Architects, teams of interior Kitchens and Baths. Margaret Ann Jeffries, October 27–28, during the Parkridge home tour. designers will be assigned to each room and to PhD, Dept. Head of Engineering and Media This will be a chance to see the homes in their the exterior of the houses to choose all fi nishes, Technologies at Pellissippi State Community nearly-completed state, including the design fi xtures, and details. The designers, soliciting College, is selecting the paint colors for the elements contributed by the collaborative efforts donated materials and supplies, will take cues housesʼ exteriors. Jeffries has degrees in Interior of the Tennessee Chapter of ASID. Meet Becky Hancock, Our New Development Director

Knox Heritage welcomes Becky Hancock as its new Development Director. Her fi rst day was June 4.

Becky comes to Knox Heritage with a personal and professional appreciation for historic preservation. She was General Manager of the from January 2001 until May 2007, a time that included the planning and execution of the $25.5 million restoration and renovation of “Knoxvilleʼs Grand Entertainment Palace.” She served on the Building Committee with design and construction professionals and Tennessee Theatre board members. Specifi cally, she provided insight related to daily operations of a busy performing arts and entertainment venue, ensuring the re-opened theatre would serve its patrons, artists, rental clients, and staff well.

During the construction phase and after re-opening, Becky conducted numerous tours of the theatre for donors and special groups, such as Knox Heritage members. “It was a thrill to have experienced such a monumental project from an internal vantage point,” Becky says. “It taught me a lot about fundraising and perseverance. Knoxville should be proud of preserving the Tennessee Theatre for future generations to enjoy.”

Before managing the Tennessee Theatre Becky lived in for six years, her longest stint away from her hometown of Knoxville. In New York she worked for a small public relations fi rm that served the needs of musicians and organizations in the fi eld of classical music.

Becky looks forward to cultivating new members and corporate support for Knox Heritage as she brings a love of writing and experience in special event coordination to the organization. Becky says, “Knox Heritage has a loyal and supportive membership, and I am eager to help Kim, Hollie, and the board spread the word about the organizationʼs varied and worthwhile endeavors to more people in our community.”

In 2004, Becky moved into a ca. 1885 Queen Anne cottage in the Old North Knoxville neighborhood. In addition to her work at Knox Heritage, she is passionate about rowing, and she and her husband Steve enjoy working on their historic home as well as restoring and riding vintage motorcycles.

6 National Trustʼs Spring Retreat Held in Knoxville Knox Heritage coordinated all of the on-site events and entertainment for the retreat attendees. The weekend included an opening reception at the “Restore America” George Barber houses in Parkridge with HGTVʼs president, Judy Girard; workshops and breakout sessions at the History Center; a walking tour of downtown, including peeks inside , the former S&W Cafeteria, and the Gallery Lofts; a guided in-depth tour of the Tennessee Theatre (its restoration project e l a d

k was done in cooperation with the National Trust Community Investment c o t S

Corporation); and dinner at the home of Knox Heritage Board President t r e

b Dorothy Stair. Attendees also had time to explore Knoxville on their own, o R

:

o frequenting shops, restaurants, and other favorite local haunts on Gay t o h

p photo: Robert Stockdale Street, Market KH Board President Dorothy Stair (center) tours the Restore America Houses with Square, and in (L to R) HGTV President Judy Girard, NTHP VP Dolores McDonagh, NTHP Exec. VP the Old City. David Brown, and Linda Dishman, Exec. Dir. of Los Angeles Conservancy. The National Every other year the National Trust for Historic Preservation presents Trust has been the national Spring Retreat for the Statewide and Local Partners. an infl uential Representatives from state and regional historic preservation organizations partner with e l a meet together to share best practices and models for organizational d Knox Heritage k c o t development, discuss issues and concerns facing preservation organizations, S

encouraging t r e learn about emerging preservation issues and other important topics, and b

positive change o R

:

network with colleagues from across the country. Another important aspect o

in downtown t o h of this meeting is the opportunity to view fi rst-hand the historic places and Knoxville. John p photo: Robert Stockdale sites in the host city and to learn about current preservation issues there. Leith-Tetrault, NTHP VPʼs Paul Edmonson and Emily Wadhams (R) speak with President of a Spring Retreat attendee. Knox Heritage was the proud host for the 2007 Spring Retreat, which took the Trustʼs place April 19–22 in downtown Knoxville. There were representatives from NTCIC noted almost all of the progress in the center city has occurred since 40 organizations located in 27 states. They came from as far away as he fi rst visited here in 1999. Vermont and California, Florida and Washington, and Minnesota and Texas. This retreat also boasted a record-setting six vice presidents in attendance The attendees were amazed by downtown Knoxville and the surrounding from the National Trust offi ces in Washington, DC; neighborhoods. Many declared it the best partners meeting ever, and • Peter Brink, Senior VP Knoxville is now a model for many who attended. Congratulations to of Programs Knoxville and its advocates of historic preservation for making a positive impression on preservation organizations nationwide! • David Brown, Executive VP • David Cooper, VP of Resources Development • Paul Edmonson, e

l VP of Law & General a d k

c Counsel o t S

t r

e • Dolores McDonagh, b o R

: VP of Membership o t o

h Development p photo: Robert Stockdale Dean Barber, relative of architect • Emily Wadhams, George Barber, stands outside the homes VP of Public Policy on Washington Avenue and talks to the Spring Retreat attendees.

7 Knoxville’s Fragile Fifteen, continued... their fi ne craftsmanship and solid 10. The Cal Johnson Building Hall, and it acquired its current Neo- design, the buildings are deserving 301 State Street classical appearance at that time. of support from the entire The house was featured locally on community and their preservation This State Street building postcards and china as late as 1910. is a critical part of the rebirth of (ca. 1898) was built in the the college. Knox Heritage and its Vernacular Commercial style and The house is endangered by the members stand ready to assist the was originally used as a factory for inaction of its current owners. college in its efforts to preserve Knox Heritage encourages the sewing overalls. It was constructed Colonel John Williams House its architectural heritage, and we by Cal Johnson, Knoxvilleʼs fi rst owners to stabilize the property encourage Knox County residents to African American millionaire and and for its later use as the “Negro support the collegeʼs efforts. is most likely Knoxvilleʼs largest Division of the Tennessee School remaining commercial structure for the Deaf and Dumb.” The 9. Minvilla built by a former slave. architecture of the Williams House 447 N. Broadway is typical of Federal style houses in East Tennessee, but is distinguished Minvilla was built in 1913 as by its unusual pediment with a thirteen row houses, with three fanlight at the roofl ine. units facing North Broadway and ten units facing West Fifth Avenue. It is now owned by descendants Williams-Richards House At that time, Knoxvillians were of Williams who recognize the moving away from downtown historical signifi cance of the and, if necessary, work to fi nd a where the fi rst residences had house, and have begun to take sympathetic new owner to restore been. As development continued to steps to correct the degradation the house to the prominence its spread away from the central city, heritage deserves. Cal Johnson Building that occurred while the house was these buildings were converted to owned by the State of Tennessee. offi ce uses. By the 1960s a concrete This is another downtown building The potential for restoring this 13. The Glencoe Building block, one-story façade covered the endangered by neglect that causes signifi cant building still exists, and (615 State Street) porch bays and the buildings were concerns about accidental or arson we are anxious to see their plans & The Elliott Hotel renamed the Fifth Avenue Motel. fi res. It could be a featured site come to fruition. Recent efforts will (201 W. Church Street) in current efforts to encourage preserve the familyʼs legacy as heritage tourism related to Knox embodied in this structure. These former residential hotels Countyʼs African American residents speak to the time when downtown and their ancestors. Knox Heritage 12. Williams-Richards House Knoxville was the rail center for calls upon the property owners to 2225 Riverside Drive the Southeast and, like today, city- make long-overdue repairs and center living was in style. hopes the current level of downtown The oldest part of this house was redevelopment will spur the built in 1842 by John Williams, The Glencoe was built in 1906 in the Minvilla repair and reuse of this important II, in the Federal style. Williams Neo-classical style. It was designed structure before it is too late. was the grandson of James by the Knoxville fi rm, Gredig & Knox Heritage commends the City White, founder of Knoxville, and of Knoxville and Volunteer Ministry 11. Colonel John Williams he was the great-grandfather of Center for their plans to preserve House playwright Tennessee Williams, Minvilla for residential use. By 2333 Dandridge Avenue who was a visitor to the house. He using a combination of federal called the plantation Marbledale, funding and Historic Preservation The Colonel John Williams House and reportedly entertained such Tax Credits, they are using the was built in 1826 by Williams and dignitaries as President Andrew Secretary of the Interiorʼs Standards his wife, Melinda White Williams, Johnson. for Rehabilitation to return the row the daughter of Knoxville founder houses to their original design. We James White. It is signifi cant for When the property was purchased The Glencoe Building are pleased to see progress on this its architecture, as the home of by John Richards in 1899, it was ambitious but worthwhile project. a prominent Knoxville politician remodeled and renamed Colonial continued on page 9 8 Knoxville’s Fragile Fifteen, cont’d... Lynn Architects. Its architectural are hopeful that the restoration features include two half-octagons or reconstruction of the original forming a central recess, which facade will complement the historic incorporates a three-story porch. streetscape and character that has How To Contact returned to the 400 block of Gay Knox Heritage Street, as evidenced by the beautiful restoration of the Hope Brothers Building and The Phoenix Building. Edelmar Physical Address: The J. C. Penney Building is part of businesses, including the Fountain the Commercial Historic City Railway Company. He founded The Carriage House District, a designation that carries a furniture company that crafted the potential for rehabilitation furnishings for some of Knoxvilleʼs at Greystone The Elliot tax credits. The National Register fi nest homes, and a business that 1300 N. Broadway status of the district is precarious manufactured fi replace mantles Knoxville, TN 37917 The Elliot was built in 1907 as The because so many buildings have for elegant mansions nationwide. • Whitfi eld Apartments and is in the been demolished. Restoration of the Atkin developed a large portion of Neo-classical style. original façade of the J. C. Penney Knoxvilleʼs Oakwood and Fountain Mailing Address: Building could help assure survival City suburbs, and built two hotels These buildings were condemned and two theatres in downtown by the City of Knoxville for building Knoxville. P.O. Box 1242 and safety code violations. The Knoxville, TN 37901 buildings also suffer from years of The 30-acre estate overlooking • deferred maintenance. They are the Little River portion of Lake part of the Gay Street National Loudoun was recently subdivided Office Phone: Register District and eligible for into smaller lots and auctioned to preservation tax incentives. Their the highest bidder. The new owner (865) 523-8008 rehabilitation will restore these requested and then withdrew a beautiful buildings to their rightful rezoning in order to develop the • prominence in downtown. Knox site. The MPC staff report, prepared Heritage encourages the current The J.C. Penney Building in conjunction with the proposed Fax: owners to make the needed rezoning of this property, calls for repairs and proceed with planned of the district, which is crucial to historic zoning to be placed on the (865) 523-0938 redevelopment as quickly as redeveloping many of the Gay 6600-sf Atkin family home and • possible. Street buildings. We call upon the the surrounding parcel in order owners to execute a façade design to guarantee preservation of this Website: 14. J. C. Penney Building that is respectful of neighboring signifi cant building. We are hopeful 412 S. Gay Street historic structures and recognizes that the new owners will include the buildingʼs context and unique the preservation of Edelmar in their www.knoxheritage.org This building was constructed as original architecture. development plans for the site. the Sterchi Brothers Furniture • store in 1898 after the “Million 15. Edelmar ••• Dollar Fire” of 1897. Because it 3624 Topside Road General E-mail: Please join us in our efforts previously was endangered by a to save our endangered lack of maintenance, the building This house built in 1914 was the [email protected] has been listed on the Fragile 15 summer home of prominent heritage through advocacy for several years. The building Knoxvillian, C.B. Atkin. It is named and action. More information now has been stabilized by new after Atkinʼs three daughters about this year’s Fragile owners whose work has revealed Edith, Eleanor and Marion. Atkin Fifteen can be found at the spectacular original façade. We was the proprietor of several local www.knoxheritage.org.

9 Knox Heritage Membership Benefi ts

Standard Membership Benefits (all levels) Friend Members ($25 or more) • Knox Heritage Quarterly newsletters Receive standard benefi ts. • Membership in our online discussion group Supporter Members ($40 or more) where you can discuss preservation issues Receive standard benefi ts. and benefi t from referrals to restoration Patron Members ($100 or more) craftspeople (to join, send an e-mail to Receive standard benefi ts plus an invitation to attend the annual Patronsʼ Party in the spring. [email protected]) Sustainer Members ($250 or more) • Invitation to the Annual Meeting & Preservation Receive standard and Patron benefi ts plus a behind-the-scenes tour, and a copy of the book Awards and all Preservation Month events Tradition, Innovation and Romantic Images by William Ross McNabb. • Discount on the purchase of salvage donated from structures that could not be saved Benefactor Members ($500 or more) • Invitation to hear noted historic preservation Receive standard, Patron, and Sustainer benefi ts, plus free admission for two to any of our speakers ticketed Preservation Month events and two gift memberships at the Supporter level to share with • Discounts at participating Preservation Partners friends and family. businesses (see below for current list) 1791 Heritage Society Members ($1000 or more) • Notice of upcoming Preservation Network Receive all of the benefi ts listed above, plus an invitation to attend the Annual 1791 Heritage meetings and access to a library of information Society Dinner in the fall; an invitation to a special luncheon for 1791 Heritage Society members collected from these workshops in the spring; free admission for two to all Knox Heritage events (excluding Summer Suppers and • Access to our professional staff for assistance Weekend in the Attic); four gift memberships at the Supporter level to share; and your name will and information be listed in each issue of the Knox Heritage Quarterly newsletter.

If you are not already a member, please fi ll out the membership form located on the back of this newsletter or visit www.knoxheritage.org and click on the Membership button for a secure online donation page.

Knox Heritage members receive discounts at the following area businesses. (dis) Show current member ID to receive discount; one discount per customer. MEMBERSHIP COUNTS Visit Knox Heritage at www.knoxheritage.org/corp.html for current list. Who Where What Bliss Home 29 Market Square, 865.673.6711, 10% discount, up to $100 off entire purchase www.shopinbliss.com Crescent Bend House & Gardens 2728 Kingston Pike, 865.637.3163 $2 off regular admission price Heritage Pest Control 865.525.8900 15% discount for pest control services & 20% discount for termite & moisture control services & free inspections Graning Paint 311 N. Broadway, 865.546.4881 5% discount High Oaks Construction 865.637.2342, www.highoaksconstruction.com one-half percent discount off total amount May Studios 770 Caney Creek Road, Pigeon Forge, 865.436.3441 free inspection & evaluation of historic architectural stained or leaded glass for possible restoration or repair McClung Museum 1027 Circle Park on the UT Campus, 865.974.2144, 10% discount in gift shop http://mcclungmuseum.utk.edu Russellʼs Pest Control 865.588.5527 25% discount for termite control and/or $60 per quarter for perimeter pest control services Smoky Mountain Glassmasterʼs Group 865.633.5122 20% discount & 25% off $2,000 custom work The Wort Hotel 50 N. Glenwood Ave., Jackson Hole, WY, 10% discount on lodging year-round 800.322.2727, www.worthotel.com (not applicable with any other package/special offer) The Victorian Wood Molding Co. 116 N. Kingston Ave., Rockwood, 865.354.8118 10% discount Glass 5209 Kingston Pike, 865.588.0486, 10% discount www.westknoxvilleglass.com

10 NEW AND RENEWING MEMBERS ADDED JUNE 16–JULY 31, 2007 OUR PRESERVATION PARTNERS 1791 Heritage Society Cran & Carol Montgomery Mary Ann Fennell Restore America Landmark Mary Beth Montgomery Morgan & Pat Fitch Neal & Joan D. Allen Sponsors Charlie & Moll Anderson Charlie & Moll Anderson Lucile J. & Ernie Nelson Joe Galetovic Barbara & Steve Apking Townes Lavidge Osborn Sandy & Dan Gammon Steve & Ann Bailey Victor & Joan Ashe John & Carol Petersen Michael Pardee & Steve W. & Ann Bailey Andie Ray Elizabeth Gassel Capitol Jennifer Banner Keith Richardson Beverley & Katherine Gooch All Occasions Party Rentals J. Finbarr Saunders, Jr. & Ronald O. & Zaidee Robertson Mary Belle & Alex Harkness Dewhirst Properties Ellen Bebb Pace & Karen Robinson Drs. David & Patricia Harris HGTV/Scripps Networks Ann K. Bennett Robert F. Samples Lester & Frankie Hulett James Schaad Kenneth Langtimm Rick & Jeannie Bennett Pedestal Gary & Julia Bentley Dr. and Mrs. Matthias Schmand Cleo Babelay & Danny Olinger Bernie E. & Barbara Bernstein Mary & Joe Spengler Dr. & Mrs. Bill Ramsey C. Randall De Ford Sam & Nancy Bills Caesar & Dorothy Stair Cleo Sideris Architecture David & Judy Birdwell Nancy Young & Jeff Talman Mrs. , Jr. Cherokee Distributing Rudy & Cindy Bradley John Trotter Mike & Terri Tjaarda Hancock Photography John & T.J. Turley Chris & Jill Van Beke Joseph P. & Rena T. Bruner Jupiter Entertainment Glenn & Marilyn Bullock James W. & Libba Wall Jack & Patricia Watson Mast General Store Betsey Bush Mary Helen Byers Benefactor Friend North South Productions Ellen M. Capito Donna & David B. Kerr Jeannine Alley Prestige Cleaners & Jefferson & Vicki Chapman Warren & Nancy Butler Downtown Grind Pamela Rayburn-Chips & Patron Mr. & Mrs. James Clements Dan Chips Edward S. Albers, Jr. Todd & Karen Duren Cornerstone Joe & Carole Ayres Jacene Lillian England Linda & Pete Claussen The late Nell Sampson & John & Jane Conley Wayne & Ellen Blasius Kimberly Blake Estes Steve Cotham Will & Candy Brownlow Thompson Galetovic Blair Carter John & Patricia Craig Marianne G. Cobble Manker Galetovic BarberMcMurry Architects Dr. Reid Crumpton Mark & Pat Donaldson Bruce Glanville Bennett Galleries Wes Goddard & Randall De Ford Patricia Dotson Robert & Susan Hawthorne Bobʼs Package Store Allison Danielle Easterday Patrice Lee David & Tracy Dewhirst Brewer Ingram Fuller Jim & Melinda Ethier Mike Fowler Kathy Manning Coldwell Banker Scott & Lynne Fugate Mr. & Mrs. Eugene L. Frazer, Jr. Donna McCullough-Mitchell Sam & Ann Furrow Steven & Jill Hall Rose Moseley Wallace & Wallace Realtors Lynn Fuson Jan Henley Jacqueline T. Newman Gourmetʼs Market L. Duane & Marsha Grieve Gina Kaeuper Carol Overbey Wells Fargo Home Mortgage— Jimmy & Dee Haslam Steve Koella Jeff Petrik & The McVey Team Mayor Bill Haslam & Mark & Catherine Mamantov Melissa Hansen-Petrik Friends of the Barber Houses Mrs. Margaret Stegall Pauline Prosser Crissy Haslam Custom Marble & Design Keystone James & Natalie Haslam II McCampbell Joshua Queener High Oaks Construction Blaine Construction Corporation Christine Hayworth Anne Dean McWhirter Paul & Amy Quimby Graybar Electric Creative Structures, Inc. Mary & Dan Holbrook Linda Gay Blanc & Barbara Rodrigue Winco Tile Dr. & Mrs. John Hoskins Marshall H. Peterson Charles Ross Elizabeth Eason Architecture Breese & Kathryn Johnson Sharon J. Miller Julie Webb Coldwell Banker Wallace & Wallace Realtors George Creek Construction Raja & Michelle Jubran Sarah W. Penegar Madeleine Weil BEL Stone & Tile Company Tim & Vicki Keller Judge John Rosson, Jr. Lila A. Wilson Gettelfi nger Properties Katie King Frank & Judy Rothermel Construction Team McCarty Holsaple McCarty Karen Kluge Daniel Schuh Student JIL Electric Stephen & Nancy Land David Tandy Heather Craig Panorama Publishing, Inc. Williamson Drain & Bill & Gay Lyons Wayne & Connie Whitehead Plumbing Service Tracy Kramer Jewelry Penny Lynch & Kimbro Maguire Anne Woodle The Wort Hotel Eddie Mannis * If you have been incorrectly Tallent Drywall left off the list, need to make Jim & Tam Martin Supporter Chancey & Reynolds Pillar Thomas M. & Melissa McAdams Sharon Boyce any corrections, or wish for your Darryl Ellis Painting Merit Construction, Inc. Sheena McCall Dan Brewer membership to be anonymous, Mr. Sandman Flooring Lindsay & Jim McDonough Mrs. Angela Bridges please contact Becky Hancock by Big Orange Foam Studio Four Design Douglas J. & Jeannine McKamey Ann & Greg Curtin phone (865) 523-8008 or email, Warrick Roofi ng The Knoxville Real Estate Sandy & Helen McNabb Charles & Terry Faulkner [email protected]. Rain-Flow Gutters Company

11 Non-Profi t Org. U.S. Postage PAID Knoxville, Tenn. Permit No. 526

P.O. Box 1242 Knoxville, TN 37901 www.knoxheritage.org

Knox Heritage Membership Application (Summer 2007) Your membership dues support Knox Heritage programs. Knox Heritage is a 501(c)3 nonprofi t organization. Your contribution is tax deductible as allowed by law.

Name: Address:

City: State: Zip: Phone: E-mail: Amount Enclosed: $ Check Visa MC AmEx

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Membership Dues Friend $25 Supporter $40 Patron $100 Sustainer $250 Benefactor $500

1791 Heritage Society $1000 (monthly and quarterly billing available) Mail to: Knox Heritage, P.O. Box 1242, Knoxville, TN 37901; fax to (865) 523-0938; or join online at www.knoxheritage.org.