More Was Misplaced Than the Extra "S"

Recently I had the opportunity to use the Avery Index to Architectural Periodicals, an on-line database of citations to articles in approximately 300 current and over 1,000 retrospective architectural and related periodicals dating from the 1930s to the present.  Access to such a database is invaluable when researching architects, their buildings, or even structures located in specific locations.

Unfortunately this expensive database is not available via the Montgomery County or District of Columbia public libraries or even at Montgomery College. It is primarily found at universities and it was through Catholic University that I was able to access it.

A quick keyword search of "Silver Spring, MD" pulled up multiple hits but one immediately jumped out at me.  The citation read:

Title: Tourist Center [Silver Springs, Md.]

Source: Progressive architecture, 1958 Apr., v. 39, p. 146-148, illustrations, plan

Language: English.

Abstract: Victor A. Lundy, archt.

Subject(s): Vacation camps

People: Lundy, Victor Alfred, 1923-

Document Type(s): journal article

A tourist center was planned for Silver Spring in 1958?  That was news to me! It made perfect though. Perhaps the center was to serve as a gateway to tourists planning to visit the Nation's Capital. Visions of an awesome example of mid-century roadside architecture formed in my mind.  I couldn't wait to see not only this structure's planned design but perhaps where it's location had been envisioned.  

Luckily the D.C. Public Library carries original back issues of Progressive Architecture and I was able to access to April 1958 issue. I laughed when I flipped to page 146 of the issue only to find that the built tourist center was in Silver Springs, Florida and not in Maryland!  Usually our Silver Spring (with the extra "s") is mixed up with the Florida location but never had I seen the reverse confusion committed.

This tourist center replaced one destroyed in 1955 that served as the gateway to the world famous artesian spring waters that had been beckoning tourists since 1860...well, the water and those equally famous glass bottom boats.  A portion of Lundy's 1958 structures appear to have survived and are part of the attraction's "open air" Springside Mall.  A fascinating history on Silver Springs is available at http://www.silversprings.com/heritage.html.

Oh well. I still think a tourist center in downtown Silver Spring is a good idea, one that not only promotes attractions in DC but those found right here in Silver Spring. I am always amazed when visitors stop me on the street and ask directions to various local businesses and attractions.  Perhaps a tourist kiosk can be placed in the new Silver Spring Library.