Roden Block
The Roden Block, also called the Roden Building, was built by Benjamin Roden before 1884 at the corner of 2nd Avenue North and 20th Street North. The three-story commercial block was constructed of pressed-brick with stone trim. Roden's grocery occupied the lower floor with offices above and sleeping rooms on the top floor.
According to an 1887 business directory, the Birmingham Board of Aldermen held their meetings in the Roden Building.
Birmingham National Bank replaced Roden's grocery in the early 20th century.
In 1937 the Roden Block and adjacent Caheen Building at 1924 2nd Avenue North were combined and completely renovated by Miller, Martin & Lewis Architects for Parisian stores. The cornices were removed, window openings enlarged, and a new white stone cladding was installed with simplified geometric details.
Tenants
- Benjamin Roden's grocery
- offices of the Avondale Stove & Foundry Co. (1887-)
- Birmingham National Bank
- Parisian (1937-)
- Butler's Shoes
References
- White, Marjorie Longenecker (1977) Downtown Birmingham: Architectural and Historical Walking Tour Guide. Birmingham: Birmingham Historical Society.
- Pocket Business Directory and Guide to Birmingham, Ala. (1887) - accessed January 16, 2007