RHJ: Old Shorter College

For more than 100 years, the towers of Shorter College dominated Rome's skyline, rising above the city like a castle. Around the same time the courthouse became one of Rome's defining landmarks, visitors arriving downtown would have looked up and seen something entirely different—a sprawling collection of Gothic-inspired buildings perched dramatically on Shelton Hill.

Today, only fragments remain. But if you know where to look, the architecture still tells its story. If these building still stood today, they would almost certainly be one of Georgia's most photographed Victorian landmarks.

Jeb ArpJuly 27, 2026Comment

RHJ: Nevin Opera House

Today, Opera Alley is one of downtown Rome's most photographed spots. People walk beneath the brick archway on their way to lunch, concerts on the Town Green, or events at The Forum. Most never stop to ask the obvious question. Why is it called Opera Alley?

THE ROME YOU CAN'T SEEJeb ArpJuly 24, 2026architectureComment

RHJ: Learning to Read Windows

Most of us drive past hundreds of windows every day without giving them a second thought. But what if I told you those windows are quietly telling you the story of the house?

In the newest edition of Rome Home Journal, you'll learn how to recognize:

🪟 Double-hung windows
🪟 Steel casement windows
🪟 Leaded glass
🪟 Picture windows
🪟 Bay windows
🪟 Palladian windows
🪟 Arched windows
🪟 Transom windows
🪟 ...and Rome's mysterious "coffin windows."

Rome Home JournalJeb ArpJuly 18, 2026Rome Home Journal, Window Styles, Recognizing ArchitectureComment

RHJ: Tudor Revival

Tudor Revival arrived in America during the 1920s and 1930s, inspired by medieval English cottages and manor houses. Architects borrowed steeply pitched roofs, prominent chimneys, arched doorways, decorative half-timbering, leaded glass windows, and richly textured brick and stone to create homes that felt established from the day they were built.

Rome Home JournalJeb ArpJuly 15, 2026Rome Home Journal, Tudor, architecture Comment