Fig. 67. The T. M. Parker Building on DeSiard Street (Bldg. 165).
The West Monroe 1909 two story building depicted in [figure 68] was built with similar characteristics as those previously described, a large glass area on ground floors and a masonry upper facade. But this building contains other individualistic features. The second floor opens onto a balcony which overlooks the Ouachita River, and a very elaborate cast stone lady’s head is incorporated into the pilaster on the left side of the front elevation. A companion sculpture on the right pilaster no longer exists. One might wonder if it were a male or female likeness.
Fig. 68. A West Monroe commercial building, 1909 (Bldg. 166).
Civic architecture is represented by the 1925 Ouachita Parish Courthouse, [figure 69]. Neoclassicism was used to represent monumentality through the application of engaged Ionic columns on the major facades. Broad entry terraces and steps heightened the drama of entry into the main floor. The roofline contains a balustrade as an expression of uniting the building with the skyline.
Fig. 69. The neoclassical Ouachita Parish Courthouse 1925 (Bldg. 167).
The Frances Hotel, [figure 70], was constructed in 1930 and named for Mrs. Frances McHenry, wife of a founder of Delta Airlines. Its Art Deco style has a pronounced verticality and linear quality. This early Monroe skyscraper has elaborate window and facade treatment on the first three floors with minimal facade decoration on the hotel room floors above. The building is crowned with elaboration on the facades of the top floor. This floor once contained a ballroom which overlooked the city and the river. Arched windows with elaborate projections above broke the skyline. And above the roof was an enormous red beacon which was visible for miles at night. The beacon no longer is lighted.
Fig. 70. Frances Hotel, Monroe, a 1930 Art Deco building (Bldg. 168).