Welcome to the Rogers Building in Orlando, Florida. This historic landmark, built in 1886, stands proudly at the corner of East Pine Street and South Magnolia Avenue. Originally commissioned by Gordon Rogers, an English businessman and real estate developer, the building has been a witness to the vibrant history of Orlando. The Rogers Building is a striking example of architectural innovation, with its facade clad in pressed zinc metal—a rarity in construction at the time. This unique material not only gives the building its distinctive appearance but also showcases the craftsmanship and attention to detail of the late 19th century.
In its early years, the ground floor of the building housed Rogers, Martyn & Company, a bustling wholesale and retail grocery enterprise. Meanwhile, the second floor was home to the English Club, a popular social hub for Orlando’s English immigrants. Imagine the lively clubroom of the 1890s, complete with billiard tables, a service bar, and elegant chandeliers—a testament to the building’s role as a community gathering place.
Over the decades, the Rogers Building has played host to a variety of businesses and organizations, reflecting the growth and transformation of Orlando from a small frontier town to a bustling metropolitan center. It has housed the South Florida Sentinel, a predecessor of the Orlando Sentinel, and has served as the Virginia Hotel and the Landmark Restaurant. Today, it is the vibrant home of the Downtown Arts District, where CityArts operates, showcasing local and international works of art.
The Rogers Building is not only architecturally significant but also historically important. Its association with figures like Gordon Rogers and its role in Orlando’s early commercial and social life underscore its value to the community. Despite numerous modifications over time, including renovations in the 1980s, the building has retained much of its original integrity, offering a tangible link to Orlando’s past.
