McGill Institute
8" x 12" 200 In Edition

This scene depicts an early view of the old McGill Institute that once stood on part of the property formerly occupied by the Admiral Semmes Motor Hotel, which was demolished in 1996.  In the February 16, 1897 edition of the Register the following commentary appeared:  "The McGill Institute, whose impressive facade ornaments Government Street between Joachim and Jackson, and is one of the handsomest exteriors in the city, was delivered to the trustees yesterday by Mr. Philip J. Emrich, contractor.  There was no formality observed.  The trustees were shown over the building and were delighted with the care and skill with which the institute has been constructed.  From the third floor of the main building a stair leads to the roof where one finds the first and only roof garden in Mobile.  The roof is flat and is covered with a grating of wood.  The parapet all around serves as a guard railing.  From the roof an extensive view of the city is obtained."  McGill comprised, for the most part, the old Chandler Mansion.

The last school year in which classes were conducted in this fine old building before the students were moved to the new McGill was 1951-1952.  In the year of 1955 the old building on Government was demolished.

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