Residents of The John Gorrie a condominium in front of the historic building’s façade

As residents of The John Gorrie a condominium recently gathered within the lobby of the building to receive new remote controls for the building’s private parking lot, Alisa Hawthorne observed several people introducing themselves to one another or asking each other, “Who is that?”

For months prior, Hawthorne had discussed with friends and fellow owners the idea of creating a resident directory, similar to the annuals published by The John Gorrie Junior High School, as a way to bring residents together. Soon The John Gorrie Resident Directory Committee was formed by Hawthorne, Ron Episcopo, David Jett and Mark Pariani.

“We knew it was time to act, so an invitation email was sent to each owner requesting basic information, and to make it interesting we asked for hobbies, a fun fact and a photo,” said Hawthorne. In keeping with the history of The John Gorrie a condominium being a former school, the directory will feature a dedication page to the owner of The John Gorrie, Delores Barr Weaver, who is affectionately referred to as “The Principal.”

Residences feature original historic architectural elements such as an exposed brick wall along with modern luxuries including gourmet kitchens

Designed by noted Jacksonville architects Roy A. Benjamin and Mellen C. Greeley, John Gorrie Junior High School was constructed in 1923. The buildings were listed in the National Register of Historic Places in 1987 and the school was closed in 1997. Weaver completed an extensive renovation and restoration to transform the historic landmark school into 68 residences with luxurious contemporary amenities including 12-foot ceilings, expansive windows, stainless steel GE appliances, CaesarStone countertops and hardwood floors. Now 75 percent sold, The John Gorrie a condominium is home to professionals of all ages, retirees, families and their pets.

“My favorite part of living in The John Gorrie is the privilege of living in a historic building,” said Hawthorne. “My home is part of what used to be the library and I often think about the books, tables and whispering that filled the area,” said Hawthorne, a nursing instructor, and two-year resident of The John Gorrie.

The John Gorrie Resident Directory Committee plans to host a resident social late summer for all to receive their yearbook.

“As a community we strive to meet socially as often as possible,” said David Jett, a technology sales professional who has lived at The John Gorrie for two years with his wife, Jayne. “Sometimes our gatherings are hosted in someone’s home, or occasionally a local restaurant or bar where we can support the businesses within our neighborhood like Mossfire Grill or European Street Café.”

Across the street from Bold Bean Coffee Roasters, Tres Leches eatery, a bicycle shop and more, The John Gorrie is also within walking distance to grocery stores, which allows its residents the opportunity to enjoy the immediate neighborhood without getting into a car.

In addition to being FHA and Fannie Mae (FNMA) approved, making it possible for qualified homebuyers to obtain low down payment, fixed-rate mortgages at competitive rates, owners at The John Gorrie a condominium receive an ad valorem tax abatement toward their homeowner’s tax bill through 2021.

John Gorrie residents enjoy building amenities, including its private courtyard

The John Gorrie offers one- and two-bedroom residences and two-story townhomes priced from the upper-$100,000s. The community’s amenities include private gated parking, a private courtyard, custom fitness center, elevators, a resident reading room and Wi-Fi Internet access.

For more information about how you can be part of The John Gorrie community, call (904) 383-3688 or visit www.TheJohnGorrie.com.