Nestled in the heart of Mobile, Alabama, Barton Academy stands as a testament to the city's rich educational heritage and architectural elegance. As the first public school in the state, this Greek Revival masterpiece has witnessed the ebb and flow of history, bearing silent witness to the transformation of education in Alabama.
The story of Barton Academy begins with its namesake, Willoughby Barton, an Alabama state legislator whose vision for education led to the creation of the Board of School Commissioners of Mobile County in 1826. This was a pioneering step, as it marked the establishment of the first education board in Alabama. By 1830, the board had acquired the land for the academy, setting the stage for a landmark in educational history.
Construction of Barton Academy commenced in 1836, a testament to the determination and ingenuity of architects James H. Dakin, Charles B. Dakin, and James Gallier, Sr. Despite financial hurdles, including reliance on lottery funds and private donations, the building was completed in 1839. It was a grand structure, embodying the aspirations of a community committed to education.
Barton Academy is an architectural gem, with its imposing façade and intricate design. The building is three stories high, primarily constructed of brick, stuccoed and scored to resemble ashlar. The central block is adorned with a two-story, pedimented, hexastyle Ionic portico, creating a striking visual impact. The wrought-iron balustrades add a touch of elegance, while the low-pitched hipped roof crowned by a domed cupola, ringed by 28 Ionic columns, speaks to the grandeur of Greek Revival architecture.
The dome, inspired by the Choragic Monument of Lysicrates, is a focal point, surmounted by a lantern that adds to its majestic appearance. Flanking the central block are plain sections and east and west blocks, each defined by projecting pilasters. This harmonious blend of design elements makes Barton Academy a visual delight for architecture enthusiasts.
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Following its completion, Barton Academy served as a hub for private and denominational schools, with public funding supporting its mission. The building faced challenges, including proposals for its sale due to maintenance needs. However, the community's commitment to education prevailed, and the academy reopened as a public school in 1852.
During the Civil War, the school closed, but it reopened in 1865 as a girls' high school, followed by a boys' high school in 1870. Barton Academy continued to educate generations of students until the opening of Murphy High School in 1926. Its role as an educational institution evolved, eventually becoming the Central Office for the Mobile County Public School System in the 1960s.
Time took its toll on Barton Academy, leading to its inclusion on the Alabama Historical Commission's Places in Peril list in 2005. The building faced neglect, but efforts to preserve its legacy gained momentum. With $14 million raised for restoration, work began in June 2020, culminating in the academy's reopening in August 2021.
Today, Barton Academy stands as a symbol of resilience and dedication to preserving history. Its restoration ensures that future generations can appreciate its architectural beauty and historical significance.
Visitors to Barton Academy are greeted by its grand entrance, a portal to the past that invites exploration. The interior, though altered over the years, retains the original rotunda under the dome, offering a glimpse into its historical configuration. The central stair hall and flanking classrooms speak to the building's educational roots.
As you wander through the academy, imagine the generations of students who passed through its halls, each contributing to its storied legacy. The building's history is palpable, from its early days as a beacon of education to its modern role as a preserved historical site.
Barton Academy is more than just a building; it is a monument to the power of education and community spirit. Its walls echo with the voices of the past, reminding us of the importance of preserving our heritage. Whether you are an architecture aficionado or a history enthusiast, a visit to Barton Academy is a journey through time, offering insights into the evolution of education and the enduring beauty of Greek Revival design.
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