If you are a native of Macon, Georgia, you likely have driven past one of the structures designed by local builder Bartholomew Duhart. After driving by his multi-arched entrance at the Mosley and Jesus Mission of Love Holiness Church Cemeteries, I became interested in his work. Thankfully, Historic Macon had written about him, so I was able to learn more about him and where his structures still existed. I also researched to see what else I could discover about Duhart.

Duhart trained as a mason but took additional classes through his Masonry Union to further develop his skills. A profoundly spiritual man who was civically engaged, Duhart was an ordained minister who was involved in a variety of civic organizations. He gave back to the community by helping with church restorations. He also donated land for the building of a recreation center. This donation meant one of his creations, a multi-storied restaurant was demolished.

One of his buildings and a wooden edifice still exist on Columbus Road. The first is the In Spirit Saving Bank, and the other is the Praying Tower. They are built close to each other. Tax records indicate the bank was built in 1920, and I found a record of a land transfer to Duhart in May 1980. I am uncertain if Duhart built it from scratch or heavily modified the building. Much of his work featured circles or arches, which is apparent in this building’s design. Circles are a common feature in religions, most often interpreted as symbols of eternity. The building was most recently is restaurant but is currently unused.

The second structure is the Praying Tower. According to his family, this was supposed to be one of several installations that were going to be made. (Think Howard Finster’s Paradise Garden or St. Eom’s Pasaquan.)