Built as a gabled-ell cottage between 1883 and 1888, this house was greatly enlarged and remodeled to its present appearance in the 1920’s for Mrs. E. C. Kelly, Sr. It’s located near the other Kelly House, also a local landmark, and the old Monticello High School. I think Mrs. Kelly was going for a Neoclassical-inspired Colonial Revival look. The 6 over 6 dormer windows are an unusual feature, as is the extra-wide transom.
Simplicity and functionality, highlighted by just a touch of fancy machine-made decorative elements, are one reason these houses were so popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Pattern books served as the basis for many of the designs but this version is likely just a local interpretation. The presence of railroads in almost every small town in Georgia during this era insured the availability of materials necessary for the changing architectural tastes of the emerging middle class.
Monticello Historic District, National Register of Historic Places
The American Legion was chartered in Monticello in 1931 with a small group of World War I veterans. Local Commander Ray M. Persons was instrumental in having the legion house constructed. Though not as active as it was in the past, the Legion still meets here.
Monticello Historic District, National Register of Historic Places
Monticello Historic District, National Register of Historic Places
Monticello Historic District, National Register of Historic Places
Though the massing of this house is slightly asymmetrical, it’s still a great example of the Neoclassical Revival style.
Monticello Historic District, National Register of Historic Places
Monticello Historic District, National Register of Historic Places
Monticello Historic District, National Register of Historic Places
Monticello Historic District, National Register of Historic Places
Vanishing Georgia: Photographs by Brian Brown 