West Palm Beach in Palm Beach County, Florida — The American South (South Atlantic)
Former State of Florida Board of Health Laboratory
c.1921
Designed by Pensacola architect, Walker D. Willis, as a prototype and constructed several times around the state, this remarkable Neo-classical building was considered a symbol of civilization. It was purposefully oriented west to face the now demolished FEC train station where medical supplies and samples were sent and received. This orientation made a monumental presentation to the wealthy northern visitors who arrived by train. Before backing over the railroad bridge to Palm Beach, their trains would pause in front of the beautiful west facade. For many, its elegant form symbolized for many a reemergence into civilization.
Constructed by E.H. Barto in 100 days at a total cost of $34,700, this landmark structure retains much of its original Bedford Limestone fenestration, St. Louis brick facade, and decorative classical interior. The well-preserved interior includes extensive “promenade” mosaic tile, Dade Pine floors, and a wrought iron and marble central staircase.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Notable Buildings. A significant historical year for this entry is 1921.
Location. 26° 43.085′ N, 80° 3.259′ W. Marker is in West Palm Beach, Florida, in Palm Beach County. Marker is on 5th Street east of North Quadrille Boulevard (U.S. 1), on the right when traveling west. Marker is located by the flagpole at the front of the building though address is from the bordering street behind. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 415 5th St, West Palm Beach FL 33401, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. 1916 Palm Beach County Courthouse (approx. 0.2 miles away); Dade County State Bank Building (approx. ¼ mile away); West Palm Beach Fishing Club (approx. ¼ mile away); Old St. Ann's Church (approx. ¼ mile away); Flagler Park (approx. 0.4 miles away); Industrial High School (approx. half a mile away); Flagler Memorial Bridge (approx. half a mile away); Northwest Historic District (approx. 0.6 miles away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in West Palm Beach.
Credits. This page was last revised on March 21, 2020. It was originally submitted on August 11, 2016, by Tim Fillmon of Webster, Florida. This page has been viewed 272 times since then and 5 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on August 11, 2016, by Tim Fillmon of Webster, Florida. • Bernard Fisher was the editor who published this page.