Lion House (Columbus, Georgia) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Lion House
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U.S. Historic district
Contributing property |
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Lion House (2015)
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 Location in Georgia (U.S. state)
Location in the United States
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| Location | 1316 Third Avenue Columbus, Georgia |
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| Built | c. 1840 |
| Architect | Stephen D. Button |
| Architectural style | Egyptian-Greek Revival |
| Part of | High Uptown Historic District (ID04000669) |
| NRHP reference No. | 72000391 |
| Added to NRHP | January 20, 1972 |
The Lion House, also known as the Hoxey–Cargill House, is a very old and special building in Columbus, Georgia. It is located in the High Uptown Historic District. This house was built in the 1840s. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1972. This means it is recognized as an important historical site.
Contents
The Lion House: A Historic Home
What Makes the Lion House Special?
The Lion House was built around the 1840s. It was made for Dr. Thomas Hoxey, a local physician. The architect who designed it was Stephen D. Button from Philadelphia.
The house got its unique name, "Lion House," from two statues. These statues are of lions and stand near the front door. The building's style is a mix of Greek Revival and Egyptian designs.
A Look Back: History of the House
The Lion House has a secret! In its basement, there was once an entrance to a hidden tunnel. This tunnel is now closed off. People believe it led to either the Chattahoochee River or an old hotel nearby. During the American Civil War, some think that mules were hidden inside this tunnel. In March 1934, the house was even documented for the Historic American Buildings Survey. This survey records important historical buildings.
Surviving Challenges: Fire and Restoration
During World War II, many old houses in the area were torn down. Others were changed into businesses. Around this time, the Lion House became an office building. Later, it was divided into nine apartments.
In October 1986, a fire caused a lot of damage. The roof was destroyed, and the top floor was badly hurt. The fire caused about $90,000 in damages. Soon after the fire, the building was given to the Historic Columbus Foundation. This group started repairing the house the next year. In February 1995, a private owner bought the building. They worked hard to bring the house back to its beautiful original condition. Today, you can even take tours of this amazing building!
A Special Recognition
On January 20, 1972, the Lion House was officially added to the National Register of Historic Places. This is a list of places in the United States that are important to history. The house is also a part of the High Uptown Historic District. This district is also listed on the National Register. This means the Lion House helps make the whole area historically important.
