THE ATHENAEUM RECTORY

The Athenaeum was built in 1935 for future President of the United States, James K. Polk's nephew, Samuel Polk Walker.  Nevertheless, it was first occupied in 1837 by the Rev. Frank C. Smith, rector of the Columbia Institute, an Episcopal school for girls. In 1852, the name was changed to Columbia Athenaeum. In days when few girls had many education options, the Athenaeum attracted students from all over the country. The school functioned until 1904.

The building is an example of Moorish Gothic Architecture... the only building of its kind in middle Tennessee.