Architecture of James M. Hunt | Vanishing Georgia: Photographs by Brian Brown

The Elbert County Health Center is an excellent example of Mid-Century Modern architecture, which was uncommon in rural Georgia. It was designed by local architect James M. Hunt. Particularly interesting is the roof, which is known as an inverted or butterfly roof. Modern architecture was a common choice for public health facilities, as well as doctor’s offices and banks, in the 1950s and 1960s, and was meant to convey a sense of progress and innovation. The style was never overly popular with the public, however, and as a result many examples have been demolished. This facility has been abandoned for quite a few years and should be considered endangered. It wasn’t included as a contributing resource in the Elbert Commercial Historic District, but should be re-evaluated.

The Granite Bowl, home to Elbert County’s Blue Devils, is the most unique high school football stadium in Georgia. It was originally associated with Central High School. As you can see, I wasn’t able to get inside the facility, but still wanted to share. The sunken field is surrounded by seats of, you guessed it, Elberton granite, and after an expansion in 1961, it has a capacity of 20,000. The granite was donated by local companies and much of the work of installation was done by local volunteers. The Rock Gym, visible in the background, was completed in 1942.

The press box was part of the 1961 expansion and was designed by local architect James M. Hunt (1915-1993).

Forest Avenue Historic District, National Register of Historic Places

Vanishing Georgia: Photographs by Brian Brown

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Tag Archives: Architecture of James M. Hunt

Elberton-Elbert County Health Center, 1950

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Granite Bowl, 1954, Elberton

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