Gager Lime Manufacturing Company, Sherwood, Franklin County

Threat: Neglect


Photo by Pam LaRue

Constructed in the late 1880s or early 1890s, the concrete buildings of the Gager Lime Manufacturing Company are significant among industrial complexes for their highly styled architectural elements. Unlike most late nineteenth century industrial sites, which typically exhibit little or no reference to contemporary architectural styles, the Gager Lime Manufacturing Company is unique--displaying elements of the Egyptian Revival and Gothic Revival styles. Crenellated parapet walls ornament several storage silos, making the complex appear castle-like. Other buildings feature stylized "papyriform" pilasters surrounding the window bays-another nod to ancient Egypt. The few extant buildings on the abandoned property represent the architectural elan of plant engineer George Kinney, who received no formal design training. The continued lack of maintenance threatens the site and will likely lead to further deterioration-whether intentional or accidental-of the remaining buildings.