Collier Heights, an artist book, documents an area just 5 miles northwest of downtown Atlanta, Georgia. From the neighborhood’s inception when there were few choices of where African-Americans could settle, to the present when it is recognized for its historic architecture, the neighborhood has been productive in the economy of Atlanta and instrumental to the Civil Rights movement since the mid 1950s.
Using the power of history to shape culture and social action, the book uses archival material, interviews, and photographs to explore the interconnected lives of the citizens of the Collier Heights community. Pairing owners with their houses and intimate possessions emphasizes the idea of home and financial freedom. The common architecture and numerous portraits show just how tight knit this community was and still is. The personal stories paired with portraits bring to life a time that seems distant yet not so far from the truth today – the story of the importance of community to build a better life for oneself and one’s children.
As the photographs explore elaborate mid-century modern architecture, the intimacy of the author’s experience in working in the neighborhood unfolds as intricate interiors are revealed. Being faced with the opposition and distrust as an outsider, connections to the residents were difficult to gain but worth the effort. Taken between 2010 and 2014, the portraits pay tribute to Bill Owens’ “Suburbia” and portray the pride of middle class Americans in front of their homes, their possessions. Similar to Henry Horenstein preserving a vanishing culture in “Honky-Tonk”, I look to preserve a certain time in history while the neighborhood is transforming itself.
Where can I purchase a copy of this book, A View of Collier Heights?
Hi Sandra
Sorry for late reply.
Are you still interested in purchasing a copy of the book?
Lydia
Hi Lydia ,
I am interested in purchasing a copy of the book. Please let me know where to find it.
Thank you
Jayne
I recently purchased a home in this Historical neighborhood because of its history. I would love to have this book that can help me navigate through my neighborhood.
Hello, is the book still for sale?
I will certainly plan to purchase the book. My parents purchased a home there in 1961 and lived out their lives there. It still feels serene to me to this day. Cherish the memories of bike rides through the neighborhood or seeing “Daddy” King or Dr. Mays out for a stroll.
Dear Ms. Harris- I NEED a copy of your book, The Passing Of Collier Heights. I am an original child of the neighborhood. We built our home in 1958 using a Black architect, black construction company, etc. I was 8 or 9 when we bought the lot for $90. Now I am 72, and my daughter owns 731 Shorter terrace nw. I proudly own a copy of the picture you took of my mother standing on her front porch with her wrought iron stair rails and starburst door! She talked about your interview with her and the picture off and on , many times. She felt honored and majestic, that day, and told everyone in the neighborhood and Church about your visit.
First, thank you for your historical contribution, and honoring my Mother, Otie Lee Mabry. Second, I want to purchase a copy of your book.