Learn about Old Irving Park

Irving Park was established as early as 1911, and grew from a local interest in recreation, exclusion, aesthetics, and a belief that country living was good for the soul. It was initiated by a group of investors that included a new white collar class of bankers, attorneys, and insurance executives who chose the best land for their sprawling residences. The result was a picturesque suburb, planned as a recreational community with meadows and vales that were enhanced by natural features such as hills and brooks.

Several prominent architects were hired for commissions in Irving Park, included but not limited to Charles Barton Keen of Philadelphia, A. Raymond Ellis of Hartford, Greensboro’s own Charles Hartmann and Raleigh James Hughes, and Mott Schmidt of New York. Architectural historians marvel at the quality of design in this single Greensboro district that rivals similar neighborhoods in much wealthier cities.

Learn more about the architecture and history of Old Irving Park through a presentation by architect James S. Collins. With offices in Greensboro and New York City, Collins has enjoyed several commissions for restorations and new construction in Old Irving Park, and has an eye for detail, materials, and proportion. Collins will be joined by Jeff Allen, a landscape architect from Winston-Salem, who will review the urban design and gardens of the community including the renowned work of John Nolen and Robert B. Cridland.

This FREE event will be held as part of Preservation Greensboro’s year-long celebration marking 50 years of service to the community, as as a prelude to the Tour of Historic Homes & Gardens on May 21-22, 2016.