Two historic districts proposed

The Metro Historic Zoning has approved two proposed historic landmark districts for Fire Hall for Engine Company No. 18, 1220 Gallatin Ave., and the McGavock House and the former Police Athletic League (PAL) House, both on Meridian Street in East Nashville.

The fire hall was built around 1930 and has changed little in the past 75 years.

The building largely retains original windows, exterior materials, wood trim, and its historic plan. It is similar in form to other residential-style fire halls built in Nashville in the late 1920s when the city annexed growing areas, according to Tim Walker with the Metro Historic Zoning Commission.

Walker said the commission also approved historic landmark districts for the McGavock House, 908 Meridian St., and the adjacent PAL building, 914 Meridian St. at its June 15 meeting.

The Center for Historic Preservation at Middle Tennessee State University is currently working on the national register nomination of the McGavock House, which is owned by the Ray of Hope Community Church and leased to Better Tomorrows, a nonprofit organization working to educate adults without a high school diploma.

The McGavock House was built between 1820 and 1845 as a McGavock family home. It was either constructed by James McGavock (1791-1841), who was the eldest son of David McGavock, or James' daughter, Lucinda McGavock Harris, and her husband, George Harris.

"The house is the oldest residence on a 640-acre tract first deeded to David McGavock in 1786," Walker said.

David McGavock was one of the early settlers of Nashville.

While the house originally faced south, a renovation with an addition around 1880 turned it east toward Meridian Street.

Further renovations occurred in the early 20th century and in the 1950s, when additional living space was added and the building was used as a boarding house.

The former PAL building, 914 Meridian St., is currently owned by North East Organized Neighborhoods and used for community meetings and functions. It was part of the McGavock estate before being subdivided as a separate parcel in 1905.

The house dates to around 1910 and was constructed by John J. Keyes, superintendent of Public Schools of Nashville.

Historic landmark properties must be of local, state or national significance, including structures associated with important individuals or events.

Currently Metro has about 15 properties designated as historic landmarks. The Metro Historical Zoning Commission reviews exterior work before it is done on those properties.

The two proposed landmarks still have to go before the Metro Planning Commission and be approved by the Metro Council.