The St. James Building, Jacksonville
The St. James Building stands as a resplendent testament to architectural brilliance and historical significance. Designed by the esteemed architect Henry J. Klutho and unveiled to the world in 1912, this building is hailed as Klutho's magnum opus, a crowning achievement that emerged from the ashes of The Great Fire of 1901.
This historic edifice, now housing City Hall, carries a legacy that stretches back to its origins as the vision of the Cohen Bros. Department Store. Though its purpose has shifted over the years, the St. James Building continues to captivate hearts and minds, its architectural grandeur a testament to Klutho's artistic ingenuity.
Opening its doors more than a century ago, the St. James Building began as a dedication to commerce and elegance. While originally intended as a department store, its architectural splendor transcended its initial function. Henry J. Klutho poured his creative genius into this project, recognizing its significance as a symbol of rebirth and rejuvenation for the city after the ravages of the Great Fire.
One of the most iconic features of the St. James Building is the awe-inspiring 75-foot octagonal glass dome. This magnificent centerpiece, once a skylight that bathed the interior in natural light, now graces the fourth floor, bearing witness to the passage of time while retaining its inherent beauty.
The Jacksonville Historical Society reverently describes the St. James Building as a monument of monumental works, a cornerstone of Jacksonville's architectural heritage. The society's belief that it ranks among the most beautiful City Halls in America underscores the building's timeless charm and its ability to transcend boundaries and captivate the imagination.
This historic edifice, now housing City Hall, carries a legacy that stretches back to its origins as the vision of the Cohen Bros. Department Store. Though its purpose has shifted over the years, the St. James Building continues to captivate hearts and minds, its architectural grandeur a testament to Klutho's artistic ingenuity.
Opening its doors more than a century ago, the St. James Building began as a dedication to commerce and elegance. While originally intended as a department store, its architectural splendor transcended its initial function. Henry J. Klutho poured his creative genius into this project, recognizing its significance as a symbol of rebirth and rejuvenation for the city after the ravages of the Great Fire.
One of the most iconic features of the St. James Building is the awe-inspiring 75-foot octagonal glass dome. This magnificent centerpiece, once a skylight that bathed the interior in natural light, now graces the fourth floor, bearing witness to the passage of time while retaining its inherent beauty.
The Jacksonville Historical Society reverently describes the St. James Building as a monument of monumental works, a cornerstone of Jacksonville's architectural heritage. The society's belief that it ranks among the most beautiful City Halls in America underscores the building's timeless charm and its ability to transcend boundaries and captivate the imagination.
Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Jacksonville. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "51±¬ÁÏÍø: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
The St. James Building on Map
Sight Name: The St. James Building
Sight Location: Jacksonville, USA (See walking tours in Jacksonville)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Jacksonville, USA (See walking tours in Jacksonville)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Jacksonville, Florida
Create Your Own Walk in Jacksonville
Creating your own self-guided walk in Jacksonville is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Jacksonville Introduction Walking Tour
Gracefully adorning the northeastern part of Florida along the banks of the St Johns River and the Atlantic Ocean, Jacksonville is a resplendent gem in the sun-kissed landscape of the Sunshine State.
Founded in 1822, Jacksonville, Florida, boasts a rich history as a major port and a vital military and industrial hub. The name "Jacksonville" was chosen to honor Andrew Jackson, a... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.6 Km or 2.2 Miles
Founded in 1822, Jacksonville, Florida, boasts a rich history as a major port and a vital military and industrial hub. The name "Jacksonville" was chosen to honor Andrew Jackson, a... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.6 Km or 2.2 Miles
Downtown Historical Buildings Walking Tour
In the wake of The Great Fire of 1901, the largest-ever inferno in the Southeast, Downtown Jacksonville had be to rebuilt anew. Some of America's most creative and innovative architects of the day, looking to make a name for themselves, like New York City’s Henry John Klutho and Melvin Henry Hubbard, flocked to Jacksonville for the opportunity to rebuild its Downtown area. Guided by their... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.9 Km or 1.8 Miles
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.9 Km or 1.8 Miles