Celebrating the Legacy of Architect J.D. Atchison in Winnipeg

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A review of Gail Perry's book on J.D. Atchison highlights the architect's significant contributions to Winnipeg's architectural landscape and his enduring legacy.

In a recent book review, Gail Perry highlights the remarkable contributions of J.D. Atchison, one of Winnipeg's most notable architects from the early 20th century. Between 1905 and 1923, Atchison played a pivotal role in shaping the architectural identity of Winnipeg, designing an impressive total of 140 structures, of which 55 remain standing and 54 continue to serve their original purposes today. Perry describes Atchison's work as both 'terrific and prolific,' underscoring his influence on the city’s aesthetic and functional landscape.
Beyond his architectural designs, Atchison's legacy extends into community service and education. He was instrumental in founding the Winnipeg Art Gallery, recognized as Canada's first free civic gallery, and the Winnipeg School of Art, which is now affiliated with the University of Manitoba. Furthermore, he played a key role in establishing the Manitoba Association of Architects and advocated for the creation of an architecture school at the University of Manitoba, marking it as the third such institution in Canada.
Despite his significant contributions, Perry notes that Atchison has not received the recognition he deserves. 'He deserves to be known and remembered,' she asserts, emphasizing the need to honor his legacy. Atchison's architectural style was diverse; he was adept in various styles and types of buildings, from towering office structures to more modest residential designs. Unlike contemporary 'starchitects' whose works often bear distinctive trademarks, Atchison’s buildings are characterized by their harmonious proportions and excellent composition, which Perry describes as achieving the architectural 'sweet spot.'
Among Atchison's noteworthy works is the Bank of Hamilton, constructed between 1916 and 1918. This nine-story building features a robust reinforced concrete foundation and a steel frame shielded by concrete, adorned with exterior walls made of brick and tile, all elegantly finished with Tyndall stone. Another significant design is the Manitoba School for the Deaf, built from 1920 to 1922, which has continuously served as an educational institution and is currently part of Canadian Mennonite University.
Perry’s personal favorite among Atchison's creations is the Boyd Building, completed between 1911 and 1912 on Portage Avenue. This nine-story steel-frame structure is notable for its tripartite design, comprising a base, a main body, and a Beaux Arts cornice—an architectural concept influenced by the esteemed Chicago architect Louis Sullivan.
Atchison's journey began in rural Illinois, where he was born and raised before moving to Winnipeg in 1905 after training in Chicago. He brought with him a refined taste for classical revival architecture and modern styles from the Chicago and Prairie Schools, as well as his innovative designs for suburban courtyard apartments. The early 20th century proved to be a fruitful period for Atchison, as he capitalized on Winnipeg's rapid growth and prosperity, resulting in a multitude of commissions for his architectural services.
However, the economic downturn of 1913, compounded by the subsequent war, pandemic, and labor unrest, including the Winnipeg General Strike of 1919, significantly impacted Atchison's career. As commissions dwindled, he and his family made the decision to relocate to southern California in 1923, where he opened a new office in downtown Los Angeles the following year.
The book 'John D Atchison: His Works and Times' published by the Winnipeg Architecture Foundation, serves as a comprehensive tribute to Atchison’s life and work. Spanning 296 pages, it features a rich collection of color and black-and-white photographs, alongside a chronological biography of Atchison and his architectural endeavors across Chicago, Winnipeg, and California. The book also includes numerous sidebars filled with intriguing historical insights and 103 thumbnail images of Atchison’s extant buildings in various styles.
Susan Algie, director of the Winnipeg Architecture Foundation, emphasizes Atchison's importance in the city’s architectural history, stating, 'Atchison is an important early architect in Winnipeg who had a significant and lasting impact on the city.' With Perry’s extensive research and the book’s archival visual content, the aim is to ensure that Atchison's legacy is preserved and appreciated for generations to come. For those interested, the book is available for purchase at McNally Robinson Booksellers in Winnipeg and online at the Winnipeg Architecture Foundation's shop.

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