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Girard Historic District: A Journey Through Time

Discover Phenix City's Girard Historic District: Architecture, history, and Southern charm await in this well-preserved glimpse into the past.

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Explore the Girard Historic District in Phenix City, Alabama, a 23-acre area listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Once a separate bustling town, Girard showcases a variety of architectural styles, including well-preserved shotgun houses and Victorian cottages, reflecting its rich history from the early 19th century to its merger with Phenix City in 1923.

A brief summary to Girard Historic District

  • Phenix City, Alabama, 36867, US

Local tips

  • Explore the district on foot to fully appreciate the architectural details and historical ambiance.
  • Visit the Citizen's Bank building for a prime example of Renaissance Revival architecture.
  • Take a stroll along Dillingham Street to see a variety of well-preserved shotgun houses and Victorian cottages.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Phenix City Riverwalk Amphitheater, head east along Dillingham Street. The Girard Historic District begins a few blocks east of the riverfront, with notable architecture becoming visible along Dillingham and the side streets branching off it. The Citizen's Bank building, a key landmark, is located at the intersection of Dillingham and Broad Street.

  • Public Transport

    The Phenix City Express (PEX) operates fixed routes in the city. Check the current bus schedules for the closest stop to Dillingham Street, which runs through the heart of the Girard Historic District. From the bus stop, it's a short walk to explore the historic buildings. The PEX is free to ride.

  • Driving

    From US-80, turn north onto Broad Street. The Girard Historic District is located along Broad Street and the intersecting streets. Limited street parking is available. Be mindful of parking regulations. Parking is also available at Marathon Truck & Auto Plaza - 410 Martin Luther King Jr Pkwy N.

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Discover more about Girard Historic District

The Girard Historic District, located in Phenix City, Alabama, offers a captivating glimpse into the past. This 23-acre district, once the heart of the separate town of Girard, is a treasure trove of architectural styles and historical narratives. Named after Stephen Girard, a Philadelphia banker and philanthropist, Girard played a vital role in the early development of Russell County, briefly serving as its county seat from 1832 to 1839. Established in the 1830s, Girard thrived as a commercial and residential center, fueled by cotton mills and river trade. The district's architecture reflects this evolution, showcasing a diverse range of styles. One of the most distinctive features is its collection of shotgun houses, narrow rectangular homes that provided affordable housing for mill laborers. These homes often feature ornate porch detailing, adding individuality to their simple design. As you explore the district, you'll also encounter more elaborate Victorian cottages, particularly on the higher ground south of Dillingham Street. The commercial section of the Girard Historic District, closer to the Chattahoochee River, features early 20th-century buildings. The most prominent is the Citizen's Bank, a Renaissance Revival-style building constructed in 1909. Its keystone arched windows and columned portico stand as a testament to Girard's commercial success. Other notable commercial buildings include the 1890s liquor warehouses and early 20th-century brick storefronts. Beyond its architecture, the Girard Historic District holds historical significance. The hilltop overlooking the Dillingham Street Bridge was once the site of Fort Ingersoll, a log trading post and garrison during the Creek War of 1836. The bridge itself, built in the 1830s by John Godwin and Horace King, was a vital transportation link. Girard also played a role in the Civil War, serving as the site of the Battle of Girard in 1865. In 1923, Girard merged with Phenix City, ending its separate existence. However, Girard's story is also intertwined with a darker side of history. During the Prohibition era, it gained notoriety as a center for bootlegging and illegal alcohol trade. This illicit activity continued even after Prohibition ended, contributing to Phenix City's reputation for vice and corruption. The Citizen's Bank, ironically, was established to handle the finances of the liquor trade. Today, the Girard Historic District is a peaceful residential area with scattered businesses, offering a welcome respite from modern life.

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