Nestled in Atlanta’s cherished Diamond Hill community on the city’s west side is the magnificent Herndon Home, a treasure built in 1920. The private residence of the city’s first African American millionaire of note, Alonzo Franklin Herndon, this custom built estate celebrates it’s 101st anniversary this year.
A timeless and significant landmark, the Herndon Home was built exclusively by black craftsmen who embraced the architectural style of that era, Beaux Arts — the American Renaissance period from about 1890 to 1920 that encompasses the French and Italian Renaissance, and Neo-classical Revivals.
The two-story, 15-room house’s entry is framed by six colossal columns. A covered veranda and porte cochere (walkway) are southern architectural amenities used to balance the central square mass of the house in tripartite symmetry. Inside the urban palace, a visitor will see a custom mural in the living room that depicts the completion of the house, as the pinnacle of a life which began in a slave cabin. Herndon was born a slave who went on to establish and operate successful barbershops on Peachtree Street in downtown Atlanta after the Civil War. He became a developer and major property owner in Atlanta and later founded the Atlanta Life Insurance Company.
On Sunday, September 11, 2011 The Herndon Foundation will pay tribute to the Herndons’ legacy and their august retreat with a centennial celebration at the Atlanta History Center. The occasion will kick-off the first major capital campaign initiated by The Herndon Foundation to support the expansion of services and the ongoing restoration of the Herndon Home.
“It is our privilege and responsibility to perpetuate Mr. Herndon’s entrepreneurial spirit and philanthropic legacy throughout the Atlanta community and across these United States,” said William J. Stanley III, chairman of the Herndon Foundation, in a press statement. “At this critical juncture when African Americans are seeking mentors and role models, Alonzo Herndon’s life work is exemplary. It is a beacon which continues to call us to service a century later. It compels black men and women of every age to become inspired by Mr. Herndon’s accomplishments. It encourages us to emulate his business prowess and commitment to the community.”
The September celebration is open to the public. Tickets are $200 each. –yvette caslin
For information about tickets to the celebration, please contact Eventions at [email protected] or telephone (404) 505-8188. The Herndon Home is located at 587 University Place, NW; Atlanta, Ga. 30314. Guided tours are conducted hourly from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays and by appointment. There is a nominal fee for admission and special discounted rates are available for groups. For more information and to schedule a tour, please call (404) 581-9813.
