Post-War Mass Suburbs

Emory Woods Apartments were completed in 1949 and housed several World War II veterans. In speaking with the property manager, some of the original veterans still reside there today.

These garden apartments separate the pedestrian from the automobile, with parking spaces and carports along the curvilinear streets, not fronting each apartment.

Individual buildings are separated with sidewalks and large lawns, several of which still include period clothes drying lines.

Emory Woods was initially constructed as part of the overall Clairmont Heights neighborhood plan, including both the garden apartments and detached homes. Today, however, Clairmont Heights is comprised of single family homes and excludes Emory Woods, according to this 2006 aerial from the neighbood's website.

Developed in the 1950s, the Clairmont Heights neighborhood includes single-family brick ranch homes and cottages. Consistent with the post-war period, Clairmont Heights was designed with large lots and homes of similar design set back from the curving streets.

Also consistent with the period, deed restrictions existed to prevent working class families from moving in. According to the Clairmont Heights Civic Association website,

“There were “restrictions or covenants” placed on the properties that were in effect for about twenty years from the time of construction. Among those covenants are prohibitions against “noxious or offensive activity.” In addition, “no dwelling costing less than $10,000 shall be permitted on any lot in the tract.” More specifically, “No temporary house, small trailer or tent shall be erected on said property to be used for residential or church purposes, and no lot shall be used for schools or kindergartens.” That is, “Said property shall be used for single family residence purposes only.’” (retrieved October 22, 2009)

And note - there are no sidewalks here.