18. Allen Memorial Medical Library
The Cleveland
Medical Library Association carefully planned and built
the Allen Memorial Medical Library building to house their
library collections and their growing historical collections--now
part of the Dittrick
Medical History Center and Museum. They chose the architectural
firm of Frank R. Walker and Harry E. Weeks, a firm noted in
the Midwest for their classical revival style. Walker and Weeks
left the largest legacy of important structures in Cleveland
of any architectural firm in the city's history, including
the Federal Reserve Bank, The Cleveland Public Library, and
Severance Hall. The construction firm of Reaugh was retained,
and the cornerstone was laid on July 23, 1925.
The building is considered an architectural prize, resembling the Petit Trianon
at Versailles on a larger scale. It is neo-classic in style.
From its pink marble exterior steps and bronze doors, to its
marble lobby and interior stairs, and reading rooms done in
an English university tradition, it is a visual pleasure. The
architectural significance of the Allen is noted in its designation
as both a Cleveland Landmark and as part of the National
Register of Historic Places.
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