Establishing a Historical Landmark - 108 N. Main St. - JMS Building

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which are topped by elaborate egg and dart moulding. The overall decorative detail of the structure tends to .reflect the impact of the Colombian Exposition of which the architect, Solon S. Beman, was a major participant. However, the frank expression of the steel frame, which allows maximum admission of light and open interior space, links the building to the Chicago School. of skyscraper construction. The building has a flat roof with robust projecting cornices that have egg and dart molding and decorated voluted console brackets. The structure has a modern aluminum stone front entrance and further modern stone fronts along the street. The windows are 1/]. double hung with. simple decorated spandrels, except for the eighth floor which has round even spans and cartouche keystones. RECOMMENDATION Based on the Historic Preservation Commission's Local Landmarks Criteria as adopted by the Common Council, the site at 108 N. Main has been recommended to the Common Council for designation as 'a Local Historic Landmark by the Historic Preservation Commission. The building meets the criteria in at leas Y. three areas: l.) Its embodiment of elements of architectural design, detail, materials, or craftsmanship which represents an architectural characteristic or innovation. 2.) Its suitabi..lity for preservation. 3.) Its identification with the life of a person or persons of historical significance. The building fulfills criteria ~F1 as an excellently preserved example of a Classical Revival Style advanced office building with Chicago School. influences. The building i.s the first example of modern office building construction in South Bend. The building is rated an Outstanding Thirteen in the Indiana Historic Sites and Structures Inventory. The building fulfills criteria ~~2 by the integrity of its original construrti.on with only minor alterations. Alterations are limited to the storefront and entry facades at the ground level. The building fulfills criteria 4~3 by its association with prominent South Bend citizen John Mohler. Studebaker, vice president of Studebaker Manufacturing Company. In addition to its well known owner. it was designed by Solon S. Beman, the man responsible for designing Pullman, Illinois as well. as several other buildings in South Bend such as J.M. Studebaker's residence, "Sunnyside". At its April meeting, the Historic Preservation Commissio found that that the building meets the criteria for designation as a Local Landmark and recommended the btxi.lding to the common council. for such designation. 5/7/98 DBD