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Meachem, C[harles] T., photog.

[Photo album of houses designed by Cleveland architect Harlen E. Shimmin].

Cleveland, Ohio: C. T. Meacham, [ca. 1925]. Oblong 8vo (22 cm), pebbled brown leather. 70 silver print photographs, 7.25” x 9.375” plus margins, photos mounted on linen leaves. Printed credit in lower margin of each photo reading “Harlen E. Simmin Architect Cleveland, Ohio.” Some photos with photographer C. T. Meachem’s ink stamp and manuscript inventory number on verso. CONDITION: Covers moderately rubbed at the extremities and spine; photos generally very good; first photo creased near inner edge with some loss along crease; front hinge broken on the inside but photos firmly bound.

A photo album documenting some fifteen homes in Cleveland designed by architect Harlen Shimmin, likely used by him in his office to show prospective clients.

Born in Cleveland, Ohio, Harlen Elmer Shimmin (1874–1941) began his professional career as a mechanical engineer but by 1904 had become a practicing architect. The bulk of his work was in residential architecture, as evidenced by this attractive album which captures a variety of handsome residences he designed in a range of styles, including Tudor Revival, Romanesque, and others. Exterior shots show the homes themselves, and in some cases their grounds, including swimming pools, gardens, pavilions, ponds, etc. Interior shots feature richly appointed drawing rooms and dining rooms, a library, bedrooms, stairways, bathrooms, fireplaces, a pool table. and so on.

A registered architect, Shimmin was also a member of the Colonial Club, the Al Koran Temple, the Cleveland Athletic Club, and a Mason of the Scottish Rite.

An excellent photo-document of the work of this noted Cleveland architect.

REFERENCES: Cleveland Landmarks Commission. Harlen Elmer Shimmin at Cleveland City Planning Commission online.

Item #4560

Price: $1,500.00