Lightener Museum
Visual Details
-Many of the entrances are archways connected by pillars
-Building is almost completely made of stone, rough in texture, very natural building
-Building is natural stone with red accents
History
-Founded by Otto Lightner (1948): The museum was established by Otto Lightner, a wealthy Chicago publisher, who purchased the former Alcazar Hotel in 1948 to house his extensive collection of 19th-century fine and decorative arts.
-Former Alcazar Hotel (1888): The building originally served as the luxurious Alcazar Hotel, designed by architect Franklin W. Smith. It was opened in 1888 by Henry Flagler, a railroad magnate, and was once one of the most opulent hotels in the country.
-Expanded Collections (1970s): After Lightner's death in 1950, the museum expanded its collections. It now features a variety of exhibits, including Victorian antiques, stained glass, and mechanical musical instruments, preserving the opulent spirit of St. Augustine's Gilded Age.
Casa Monica Hotel
Visual Details
-Lots of pillars with intricate designs on them
-Almost all windows have a balcony outside of them that look like upside down pyramids
-Style of building is very Spanish as there is mosaic tiles present and carved out designs in the guard rails
History
-Opened in 1888: The Casa Monica Hotel was opened in 1888, designed by architect Franklin W. Smith. It was built as a luxurious resort for wealthy tourists visiting St. Augustine, reflecting the city's growing popularity as a vacation destination during the Gilded Age.
-Flagler’s Influence and Decline: The hotel, originally a symbol of grandeur, struggled financially after Henry Flagler opened his Ponce de Leon Hotel in 1889. By the early 1900s, the Casa Monica faced financial difficulties and changed ownership multiple times.
-Restoration and Reopening (1999): After being closed for years and deteriorating, the Casa Monica was fully restored and reopened in 1999. It is now a luxury hotel, blending its historical charm with modern amenities while serving as a popular landmark in St. Augustine.
The Governor’s House Cultural Center and Museum
Visual Details
-Recurring shapes within this building are rectangles and squares; building, windows, pillars are all rectangular
-Mixtures of textures including stone, cement and wood
-Balcony designs are similar to Casa Monica Hotel
History
-Built in the 18th Century: The Governor's House was originally constructed in the early 1700s as the residence for the Spanish Governor of Florida, making it one of the oldest buildings in St. Augustine.
-Historical Significance: Throughout its history, the Governor's House has served as the official residence for both Spanish and British colonial governors, reflecting the city's changing rule between Spain and Great Britain in the 18th century.
-Museum and Historic Site (20th Century): In the 20th century, the building was restored and repurposed as a museum. Today, it is part of the St. Augustine Historical Society and showcases exhibits related to the city’s colonial history, offering insight into its Spanish and British periods.
Cathedral Basilica
Visual Details
-Front pillars in entrance are identical to Casa Monica’s entrance pillars
-Archway and rounded windows with designs adorning them
-Similar to many of the buildings in St. Augustine, the color palette consists of white/cream and red
History
-Founded in 1565: The Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine was originally established by Spanish settlers in 1565, making it the oldest continuously used Catholic parish in the United States.
-Building History and Reconstruction: The current structure was built in 1793, replacing an earlier church that was destroyed. It was constructed under Spanish colonial rule and features a blend of Spanish Colonial and Neoclassical architectural styles.
-Elevation to Basilica Status (1976): In 1976, Pope Paul VI elevated the church to the status of a Minor Basilica in recognition of its historical and religious significance, making it one of only a few basilicas in the United States.
Sketches
