A Very Unusual Building

The H.T. Klugel Building in Emporia, Virginia (click to enlarge)

In previous wanderings, I spotted this unusual building.  However, the light was never right to photograph it so I just drove by thinking I would come back to learn more about it and photograph it when the light was better.  The other day, I was out wandering once again and decided to drive to the small city of Emporia, Virginia (pop. 5700) as the light seemed right to photograph it..  Emporia is located along I-95 about 11 miles north of the North Carolina/Virginia border.  I've been to Emporia many, many times over the years and enjoy discovering interesting things to photograph there.

There was something about this building that, other than the unusual color scheme, attracted my attention.  At first, I couldn't quite figure out what it was but as I approached it, I then realized what it was.  The entire front of this building is covered in sheet metal!  Sheet metal!  Wow!  The sheet metal was then painted silver and black.  Talk about unusual!

(click to enlarge)

I wanted to know a bit more about this building so I read more on the Internet.  Historically, here is what Virginia's Department of Historic Resources has to say about the building:

The building is probably the state’s most original example of the use of galvanized architectural sheet metal. This singular work was fabricated in 1914 to ornament the newly-built headquarters of Harry T. Klugel’s metalworks firm, founded in 1902. The façade served to advertise the rich decorative elements manufactured within. Unlike most firms, Klugel did not produce a catalog but designed each piece to order with emphasis on style and craftsmanship. 

So, it seems, Klugel decided to show off their expertise in sheet metal by covering their entire building's facade with it.  Look at the detail.  Look at the craftsmanship.  That was an innovative way to advertise.  I don't think I've ever seen another building facade that is completely covered in sheet metal.  Very unique.  Worth photographing, in my opinion, as one day it may be gone and lost forever.

These kinds of finds are fascinating to me and is another reason I enjoy getting out with my kit, no agenda, and just exploring.  You never know what you will find.

Also, a heads up.  If you are driving in or through Emporia, don't speed.  It is a notorious speed trap.  The local police run radar on the part of I-95 which is within the city limits, Route 301, a main north/south corridor as well as radar on Route 58, a main east/west thoroughfare.  I know many people who have gotten speeding tickets there.  Just a friendly warning.

Join me over at my website, https://www.dennismook.com.  

Thanks for looking. Enjoy!  

Dennis A. Mook  

All content on this blog is © 2013-2025 Dennis A. Mook. All Rights Reserved. Feel free to point to this blog from your website with full attribution. Permission may be granted for commercial use. Please contact Mr. Mook to discuss permission to reproduce the blog posts and/or images.