The De Soto Apartments on 7th near Juniper were built in 1911 by architect Frederick Frerichs. The three story, six unit building then rented a three-bedroom for $68. The first residents are a Who’s Who list of Atlanta’s most prominent citizens; William Huntt, one of the founders of Ansley Park golf course, architect Haralson Bleckley, Joseph Hirsch, one of the main founders of Grady Hospital and doctor Edgar Crawford. I first rented an apartment..#6, at The DeSoto, after moving from my apartment, #6 @ 1708 Peachtreet Rd...When The DeSoto was converted to condominiums, in the early 1980's...I purchased the top right hand one, for $40K......gussied it up a bit, and sold it, again, for $135K and bought a house in Druid Hills.....Incidentally, I supplied the art deco sidelights that still flank the entrance doors....When I lived there, the other condos were purchased by the Interior Decorater, Ed Kilby; Antiques Dealer, Jack Hotchkins; Architect, Tom Blount; Steven L. DeArmoun and his then girlfriend...and, later, wife...Maria Gallogly Irving, who moved in after its original owner, Dramatist,Bob Hollister, sold his basement unit to Steven ; Landscape Architect, John Ross West and Ga. State English Professor, Bob (?).......
In 1991, the Atlanta Preservation Center moved its offices from the downtown Flatiron Building into a 2,000 SF unit at the DeSoto. Their rent was $1,000/month....Today, my old condo, now expanded to include a rooftop garden and many architectual improvements, is currently valued at over $700K!
