History of the Iver Johnson Building:

In the late 1800’s, Iver Johnson founded the Iver Johnson Arms and Cycle Works in Fitchburg, which produced the popular Lovell Diamond bicycles and the famous Iver Johnson firearms. Equipment was constantly upgraded and constructed to produce superior manufactured goods. The reputation for having the best facilities and equipment became a hallmark for Iver Johnson products.

So, in 1896, when Mary (Speirs) Johnson built the five-story Johnsonia in memory of her husband, Iver Johnson’s premise for excellence in craftsmanship was carried on in its construction.

Excavation of the Iver Johnson Building began in 1896 by Terrell & French of Fitchburg, but the building was not completed until 1898. The Iver Johnson Building, one of the largest buildings in the city, became the pride of the Fitchburg and Worcester County. It was built of Indiana Sandstone in an Italian Renaissance style, which was one of many architectural revival styles during the late 1800’s. Its uppermost rounded windows and the Roman brick fretwork evidence the Renaissance details.

Careful and thoughtful design produced one of the most modern, sophisticated office, store, and hotel buildings of its time. Noise-proof floors were constructed by laying cement under the flooring. Two light shafts along the main corridors provided bright light and ventilation. Marble and green-glazed tiles lined the walls and ceiling of the main entrance. Suites were located on the 3rd and 4th floors, and they were beautifully designed. Ornate oak and tile fireplaces were built into a few of the apartments. The upstairs hotel dining rooms were luxurious. Furnishing included rose armure brocade-draped windows, Turkish rugs on gleaming wooden floors, and rococo frescoes in the main hall. Throughout, quartered oak trim was used.

During the time the hotel and dining room were in operation, several important local events were celebrated there. In March 1899, Commanding Major General Nelson A. Miles of the United States Army was given a royal welcome by the City of Fitchburg. General Miles was born in Westminster, Mass. His army career spanned over 30 years and included battles in the Civil War, fighting Sioux, Comanche, and Cheyenne, and leading the 1898 Porto (sic) Rico invasion.

The Johnsonia became associated with prominent members of society. According to the Fitchburg Historical Society collection, there is an undocumented report that Teddy Roosevelt stopped in The Johnsonia during his 1902 visit to Fitchburg.

The Johnsonia Associates Limited Partnership has made a commitment to preserving the refined and elegant design and construction that is difficult to duplicate today. They have combined the taste of the past with modern necessities:

Each apartment has sophistication and charm that is characteristic of the craftsmanship at the turn of the century. Ornate brass handles shine on paneled oak doors. Narrow-leaded pane windows run parallel to the entrance doors of a few apartments. Kitchens are equipped with a stove, refrigerator, garbage disposal, and ample cabinets. Bathroom floors and walls are lined with ceramic tile. Gleaming hardwood floors reflect shafts of bright sunlight from the lofty, oak-framed thermal windows. Some living rooms boast the original oak and tile fireplaces that were designed a century ago.

Over one hundred years have come and gone since the construction of the majestic building. Fortunately, for the stately, Victorian Johnsonia Building and for the City of Fitchburg, all owners have shared in its pride of quality workmanship and distinctive design. Built in memory of one of the city's leading industrialists, Iver Johnson, The Johnsonia proudly maintains its reputation as one of the most unique and charming apartment buildings in the downtown area. Its elegance and sophistication are timeless.