Talk:Richard W. Grant (1862-1939), Architect

Murphy,

The single reference in "Improvement Bulletin" to a project by "Grant & Sommers" open a window on a series of small but interesting questions. First of all, the Lincoln directory of 1899 lists the firm of Grant & Somers, and identifies Richard W. Grant and Elbert S. Somers as the partners. I've begun to assemble some information on Somers, learning that like Grant, he was an Illinois native but grew up in Beatrice. So far it appears that 1899 was his sole year of architectural practice in Nebraska and a commercial building/hall in Republican City is his only known project. By the time of the 1900 census he was in Minneapolis, then appears in Chicago in a couple of partnerships in the '10s, before moving to LA, CA to die in 1933.

Now, I envision that the Grant & Somers page would be very brief, but a Elbert S. Somers (1868-1933), Architect page needs some pondering. He certainly has Nebraska architectural roots, but almost all of his fruit was elsewhere. I've found two Chicago partnerships and some very substantial works--churches, Masonic lodge, theater, houses.

Of course, we pursue and list projects any and everywhere by Nebraska-based architects. How do you feel about including this prodigal son of Nebraska?

I'm gathering my E.S.Somers notes in a "Place Makers" draft format, which I'll send along for your perusal.

Ed