Once or twice a year, Knox Heritage members get a behind-the-scenes look at a historic building or other place usually not accessible to the general public. It's one way we say "thank you" to our members for their support. In 2008 our members visited Underground Gay Street in the 100 block of Gay near Jackson Avenue. Last April, our members toured the restoration under way at the S&W Grand, and then in October, KH members were the first to be in the completed restaurant before it was open to the public.
On Friday, March 19, from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m., Knox Heritage members will tour the Arnstein Building, 505 Market Street, and the Daylight Building on Union Avenue near Walnut Street.
The Arnstein (pictured above) is a seven-story Neo-Classical building with Renaissance-Revival detailing is said to be the first steel frame "skyscraper" built in Knoxville -- the City's tallest building when it was erected in 1905. The M.B. Arnstein Company became one of Knoxville's finest retail stores, famous for Irish linen and other imported goods such as jewelry, lingerie, and other "exclusive" best-quality goods. It is currently being renovated for office and retail use.
The Daylight Building (pictured below), completed in 1927, was built by Benjamin Sprankle, an influential real estate developer. Initially, the Daylight housed retail space on the ground floor and office space above. By 1934, it was primarily occupied by the offices of the Tennessee Valley Authority. On November 25, 2009, the Daylight Building was listed in the National Register of Historic Places. It is being renovated for residential use.
To attend the tour of these buildings, you must be a current member of (that is, a donor to) Knox Heritage. RSVP by Monday, March 15 to rsvp@knoxheritage.org or 523-8008. If you're not a member, please donate today so you can join us. Members, encourage your friends to donate today so they can see them as their restorations begin.
