The fascinating story of John D. Atchison, an influential architect, has been brought to life in a new book by Gail Perry. This book, titled “John D Atchison, Architect: His Work and Times,” is a labor of love and a crucial step in preserving the legacy of an architect who left an indelible mark on the landscapes of Chicago and Winnipeg.
Perry's passion for architecture and her curiosity about Atchison's connection to the Chicago School of Architecture led her on a journey of discovery. She realized that without her efforts, Atchison's name might have faded into obscurity, his contributions forgotten by future generations.
What makes Atchison's work so intriguing is its timeless quality. Despite being state-of-the-art for their time, his buildings still exude elegance and efficiency today. Perry describes this as Atchison's “disciplined composition” – a hallmark of his style that gives his buildings a unique “just right” look.
Atchison's journey began in Chicago, where he apprenticed under William Le Baron Jenney, the pioneer of skyscraper technology. Jenney's firm attracted the brightest minds, and Atchison was part of this revolutionary movement that changed the face of urban architecture.
When Winnipeg experienced a boom in industry and immigration, Atchison saw an opportunity. He moved his practice and family to Winnipeg in 1905, bringing with him the professionalism and vision he had learned in Chicago. He advocated for city planning and played a pivotal role in establishing the Winnipeg Art Gallery and a faculty of architecture at the University of Manitoba.
Atchison's impact on Winnipeg's architecture is evident in the diverse range of buildings he designed, from skyscrapers to stables, homes to schools, and even a hospital. Two of his designs, John Pritchard and Lord Wolseley Schools, still stand in North Kildonan.
One of the most intriguing aspects of Atchison's work is its personal connection. The author, Shirley Kowalchuk, shares a childhood memory of playing in an Atchison-designed home on Henderson Highway. The smooth red brick exterior and the echoing piano in the front room create a vivid picture of Atchison's attention to detail and his understanding of how people interact with their spaces.
As Winnipeg's pace slowed, Atchison moved his family to California in 1923, leaving behind a rich architectural legacy in Canada. Interestingly, Perry and her husband followed in Atchison's footsteps a century later, visiting the places he lived and worked, and documenting his remaining buildings.
In California, Perry met Atchison's granddaughter, Betty Jane Witz, who provided valuable insights into the man himself. Despite leaving few personal writings, Atchison's impact on those around him, and his contributions to architecture, are a testament to his character and skill.
The book, much like Atchison's buildings, is a beautiful and elegant piece of work. Perry's hope is that her research will inspire further exploration into Atchison's life and work, ensuring his place in architectural history is not forgotten.
In my opinion, this book is not just a tribute to an architect, but a celebration of the impact one person can have on a city's landscape and culture. It's a reminder that architecture is more than just buildings – it's a reflection of the people who design and inhabit them, and the stories they tell.
