Birmingham in Jefferson County, Alabama — The American South (East South Central)

Donnelly House

Photographed By Tim Carr, June 3, 2008

1. Donnelly House Marker

Inscription. This neoclassical structure was built in 1905 for James W. Donnelly, "the father of the Birmingham Library System."

Donnelly moved to Birmingham from his native Cincinnati, Ohio after retiring from Proctor and Gamble. A much respected manufacturer, industrialist, real-estate developer and civic leader, he is best remembered for his efforts to organize, fund and develop the Birmingham Public Library System -- one of the finest in the southeast.

The Donnelly house, included in the Highland Avenue Historic District, has served as a private residence, except during the 1950s, when the Birmingham Civic Ballet was located here.

Placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1977.

Erected 1980 by Alabama Historical Commission.

Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Charity & Public Work • Industry & Commerce. In addition, it is included in the Alabama Historical Commission series list. A significant historical year for this entry is 1905.

Location. 33° 30.378′ N, 86° 46.956′ W. Marker is in Birmingham, Alabama, in Jefferson County. Marker is on Highland Avenue South, on the right when traveling west. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 2838 Highland Avenue South, Birmingham AL 35205, United States of America. Touch for directions.

Other nearby markers. At least

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8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Jordan Home (within shouting distance of this marker); Thompson House (within shouting distance of this marker); The Altamont Apartments (within shouting distance of this marker); The Coe House (within shouting distance of this marker); A.B. Loveman House (about 500 feet away, measured in a direct line); Independent Presbyterian Church (approx. 0.2 miles away); The Little Theater Clark Memorial Theatre Virginia Samford Theatre (approx. 0.3 miles away); St. Vincent’s Hospital (approx. 0.4 miles away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Birmingham.

Photographed By Tim Carr, June 3, 2008

2. Donnelly House & Marker

Donnelly House image. Click for full size.

Photographed By Tim Carr, June 3, 2008

3. Donnelly House

Credits. This page was last revised on November 1, 2019. It was originally submitted on January 22, 2010, by Timothy Carr of Birmingham, Alabama. This page has been viewed 2,011 times since then and 33 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3. submitted on January 22, 2010, by Timothy Carr of Birmingham, Alabama. • Kevin W. was the editor who published this page.