Tempe Historic Property Survey

Harry Walker was groundskeeper for the Tempe Normal School during the first decade of the twentieth century before becoming an engineer for the Santa Fe Railroad in Northern Arizona. The house was used primarily as a rental throughout the historic period and in 1954, Thomas S. Montgomery, local architect, opened his offices in the building. It has functioned as offices since that time and its original architectural integrity has remained intact and enhanced through continued use and maintenance.

Constructed in 1903, the Harry Walker House is noteworthy for its architectural value as a rare surviving house type and its contribution to the interpretation of the architectural evolution of Tempe. Its construction dates from the period between the recession of the late Victorian design influences and the overwhelming popularity of the Bungalow style. This residential design format often included influences from the Georgian Revival mode of the Neo-Colonial style. The Harry Walker House is an excellent local example of this house type built for a modest working class family.

Go to Tempe Historic Property Survey