Elizabeth Duane Gillespie Junior High School, high school in Pennsylvania, United States
Elizabeth Duane Gillespie Junior High School is a four-story brick school building in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, constructed between 1925 and 1927. The structure features Late Gothic Revival design elements including large arched windows, a substantial stone entrance, and projecting end pavilions that emphasize its architectural character.
The school was designed by architect Irwin T. Catharine, known for creating schools throughout Philadelphia with Gothic details and sturdy brick construction. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1989, recognizing its significance to the city's architectural and educational heritage.
The school is named after Elizabeth Duane Gillespie, a community leader who championed patriotic observances and civic improvement. The name reflects how the city honored local figures by naming its public institutions after them.
The building is located on North 18th Street in the Nicetown-Tioga neighborhood and is easily accessible on foot. Since the school is no longer active, visitors should plan to view it from the exterior as it is not open to the public for tours.
The building demonstrates the deliberate choice of Late Gothic Revival style for schools in the 1920s, an architectural approach meant to convey tradition and durability. This design choice was typical of many Philadelphia schools from that era, making Gothic details and sturdy construction hallmarks of the city's school landscape.
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