Coca Cola Bottling Company, 1931
858-868 Massachusetts Avenue, Indianapolis IN 46204
Architect/Designer: Rubush & Hunter
DESCRIPTION:
There are two main structures within the complex, the main bottling plant and a garage. The buildings within the complex feature facades of white, glazed terra cotta. The terra cotta design features various details such as chevrons, sunbursts and elaborate spandrels. Throughout the structures are decorative pilasters and copper details, even along the loading dock canopies. These exquisite structures have remained in excellent condition, in large part due to their continued use as part of the Indianapolis Public School system. The Coca Cola Bottling Company has remained an art deco icon in Indianapolis and hopefully will continue to be fully utilized as a lasting architectural masterpiece.
SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT – INCLUDING SPECIAL STATUS AND AWARDS WON:
One of the finest examples of art deco architecture in Indianapolis the Coca Cola Bottling Company is largely unaltered from its original appearance. At one time the world’s largest Coca-Cola bottling plant, the complex takes up an entire city block.
DESIGNATION STATUS:
Massachusetts Avenue Historic District, 1982
Style: Art Deco
Owner (past/present):
Past: Coca-Cola Company
Present: Indianapolis Public Schools
Materials: Glazed Terra Cotta
Additions and/or changes with date:
1949: Additional garages added
Date unknown: Changes made to lower level of main building including lower window replacement and new exterior wall material along the ground level
Historic use/current use:
Historic use: Coca Cola Bottling Plant
Current use: Indianapolis Public School Central Kitchen
Is building open to the public?: No, exterior can be viewed from street
Condition: Very Good
Website and/or sources of information:
More information: http://www.discovermassave.com/mass-ave-history/
Sources:
Discover Mass Ave. “Mass Ave History.” Accessed October 30, 2015.http://www.discovermassave.com/mass-ave-history/
National Park Service. “Massachusetts Avenue Historic District.” Accessed October 30, 2015. http://www.nps.gov/nr/travel/indianapolis/massave.htm
National Register of Historic Places, Massachusetts Avenue Historic District, Marion, Indianapolis, Indiana. 1982.
