Metropolitan Funeral Home Granby Street Norfolk Virginia

Ever driven down Granby Street in Norfolk, Virginia, and wondered about that grand old building with the intriguing name, Metropolitan Funeral Home? Let's dive in, shall we? No, we won't be discussing the morbid stuff, promise. Instead, we're going to explore why this place is a fascinating piece of Norfolk's history and architecture.

So, what's the deal with this place?

Well, imagine you're walking down Granby Street, minding your own business, when suddenly you spot this massive, elegant building that seems to have stepped straight out of the 19th century. It's like running into an old friend you haven't seen in ages, but in this case, the friend is a stunning example of Romanesque Revival architecture.

Romanesque Revival, you say?

Yep, you heard it right. This style is all about those round arches and massive stone blocks, giving the building a solid, fortress-like feel. It's like the architectural equivalent of a warm hug on a chilly Norfolk evening. But why does this style matter?

Well, think of it this way: when you see a building in this style, you're looking at a piece of history that's over a century old. The Metropolitan Funeral Home was built in 1908, which means it's been a part of Norfolk's landscape for over a hundred years. That's like being the wise old grandpa of Granby Street, full of stories and memories.

But why a funeral home?

Great question! Before we dive into that, let's talk about the man behind the building, a guy named John L. Metropolitan. Now, don't you just love that name? It's like he was destined to own a funeral home with a name like that.

Metropolitan was a successful undertaker in Norfolk, and he wanted a building that reflected his success and the respect he had for his community. So, he commissioned local architect Norman Isham to design a funeral home that was elegant, dignified, and above all, welcoming. And boy, did Isham deliver.

Think about it: when you're dealing with such a sensitive topic, the last thing you want is a building that's cold or intimidating. The Metropolitan Funeral Home is the opposite. It's warm, inviting, and has this amazing sense of peace about it. It's like a cozy old library where you can just sit and reflect.

But what about the inside?

Oh, you're in for a treat! The inside of the building is just as impressive as the outside. There are these beautiful stained-glass windows that cast these amazing patterns of light on the walls. It's like nature's own light show, and it's absolutely breathtaking.

And get this: the building was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1982. That's like getting a special badge of honor for being awesome and historic. Not many buildings can say that, you know.

So, why is this place cool?

Well, aside from the obvious architectural awesomeness, the Metropolitan Funeral Home is a testament to Norfolk's rich history. It's a reminder that even in the midst of progress and change, there are places that stand the test of time, offering comfort, dignity, and a sense of continuity.

Next time you're driving down Granby Street, take a moment to appreciate this grand old building. It's more than just a funeral home; it's a piece of Norfolk's history, a symbol of its resilience, and a beautiful example of its architectural heritage.

And who knows? Maybe one day, you'll have a story to tell about the time you stopped to admire the Metropolitan Funeral Home. Just remember to keep it light, okay? We don't want to get too morbid here.