M.C. Kiser Company Building

M.C. Kiser Company Building: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Atlanta Historical Sites Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction: Atlanta’s Industrial Heritage and the M.C. Kiser Company Building

In the heart of Atlanta’s South Downtown, the M.C. Kiser Company Building stands as a testament to the city’s industrial legacy and architectural evolution. Constructed in 1923 as a manufacturing and warehousing center for Shield Brand Shoes, this landmark exemplifies early 20th-century mill construction—featuring robust brick walls, heavy timber beams, and expansive windows designed for fire safety and longevity (Google Arts & Culture). Over time, it has transitioned from an industrial powerhouse to a hub for public service and, today, to a thoughtfully restored residential complex known as Kiser Building Lofts.

While public access to the building’s interior is limited due to its residential purpose, its distinctive façade, historic signage, and occasional inclusion in guided walking tours make it a highlight for architecture enthusiasts and history lovers. Its location near major transit hubs like Garnett MARTA Station, Atlanta City Hall, and Georgia State University places it at the center of Atlanta’s vibrant urban and cultural landscape.

This comprehensive guide explores the building’s history, architectural features, visiting logistics, accessibility, and nearby attractions—offering everything you need to plan a rich, engaging visit to this emblem of Atlanta’s past and present. For the most current updates, consult the M.C. Kiser Lofts website, Atlanta History Center, or Atlanta Downtown’s official site.

History of the M.C. Kiser Company Building
Architectural Features & Restoration
Visiting Information
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Explore More Atlanta Historical Sites
Plan Your Visit
References & Sources

History of the M.C. Kiser Company Building

Origins and Early Development (Late 19th Century–1933)

The M.C. Kiser Company Building, at 210 Pryor Street SW, was constructed in 1923 to accommodate the operations of the M.C. Kiser Company, a leading regional shoe manufacturer since the late 1800s (Atlanta’s Past Revisited). Its “slow-burning” mill design—thick brick walls, heavy timbers, and fire-resistant features—was state-of-the-art for its time, safeguarding both workers and inventory (Google Arts & Culture).

Transition and Adaptive Reuse (1934–2003)

After the original company ceased operations in 1933, the building adapted to various commercial uses, including millinery shops and, later, as offices for the Atlanta Board of Education from 1969 to 2003 (Ray, Ellis & LaBrie Consulting). This versatility helped preserve its structure and maintained its commercial relevance for decades.

Preservation and Revitalization (2003–Present)

Following a period of vacancy, the building was reborn in 2017 through a $6.3 million rehabilitation project by Gallman Development Group. It was transformed into Kiser Building Lofts, a 41-unit residential complex, while retaining key historic features like its maroon brick, original terra cotta accents, heavy timber construction, steel windows, and a restored freight elevator (M.C. Kiser Lofts; Ray, Ellis & LaBrie Consulting). Its restoration was recognized with placement on the National Register of Historic Places in 2019 (Wikipedia).

Architectural Features & Restoration

The M.C. Kiser Company Building is a prime example of mill-style architecture, emphasizing fireproofing and durability. Restoration efforts have included:

Exterior: Cleaning and exposing the original brickwork, restoring the historic “M.C. Kiser” ghost sign, and preserving terra cotta details (Atlanta Downtown).
Interior: Revealing and refurbishing original timber beams, industrial hardware, and the unique freight elevator, which has been repurposed as an industrial-chic feature for residents and select tours.
Amenities: Modern upgrades include a rooftop deck with sweeping views of downtown Atlanta and the Georgia State Capitol.

Adaptive reuse has ensured that the building remains a living part of Atlanta’s urban fabric, blending industrial heritage with modern living.

Visiting Information

Visiting Hours & Admission

Exterior Viewing: Open to the public year-round; the building’s exterior and surrounding public sidewalks can be explored freely.
Interior Access: Restricted to residents and their guests. Occasionally, special events or guided tours grant limited interior access.
Admission: No fee is required to view the exterior or join public walking tours that include the site.

Guided Tours & Special Events

Walking Tours: Local organizations such as the Atlanta History Center, Unexpected Atlanta, and History Afoot Atlanta include the building in their industrial heritage and downtown history tours. Book in advance, as slots may fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons.
Special Events: Details on open houses or community events are posted periodically on the M.C. Kiser Lofts website or Atlanta Downtown.

Accessibility

Wheelchair Access: The sidewalks and public areas around the building are wheelchair accessible.
Transit: Located two blocks from MARTA’s Garnett Station and near other major transit corridors.
Parking: Limited parking in the adjacent garage for residents; public parking is available nearby.

Getting There & Nearby Attractions

By MARTA: Board to Garnett Station, then walk two blocks.
On Foot: Easily accessible from City Hall, Georgia State University, and Five Points.
Nearby Attractions: Explore Centennial Olympic Park, Georgia Aquarium, World of Coca-Cola, and the Fairlie-Poplar Historic District—all within walking distance (Discover Atlanta).

Photography Tips

Best Time: Capture the building’s brickwork and signage during golden hour for optimal lighting.
Rooftop Views: The rooftop, accessible to residents and during certain events, offers scenic city views.
Details: Focus on architectural features like the ghost sign, terra cotta accents, and restored elevator doors.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the M.C. Kiser Company Building open for public tours?
Generally, interior access is limited. However, guided tours featuring the building’s exterior and historical context are available through local tour operators.

Are there admission fees?
No fee is required to view the building’s exterior. Guided walking tours that include the site may charge $20–$40 per person (Unexpected Atlanta).

Is the building wheelchair accessible?
The surrounding sidewalks and public areas are wheelchair accessible. Tours aim to accommodate mobility needs.

Can I take photographs?
Yes, exterior photography is encouraged. Interior photography is restricted to residents and during special events.

Where can I park?
Public parking garages and metered street parking are available nearby.

Explore More Atlanta Historical Sites

Broaden your exploration with these Atlanta landmarks:

For more, visit Discover Atlanta’s tours and sightseeing guide.

Plan Your Visit

Experience the intersection of Atlanta’s industrial past and vibrant present at the M.C. Kiser Company Building. For the latest tour schedules and event information, check the M.C. Kiser Lofts website, Atlanta History Center, and Atlanta Downtown.