G & J Manufacturing
historic place
The G & J Manufacturing Company building, located at 3912 Willow Street in Dallas, was constructed between 1937 and 1938. Designed by Dallas architect Eugene Davis, this two-story structure is an example of Art Moderne influenced design. Founded by Joseph Addison Gage and Benjamin H. Johnson, the company initially produced canning equipment and air conditioning supplies from 1937 to 1947. This factory contributed to Dallas's growing industrial base, particularly in the early 20th century, as the city became a regional redistribution center. From 1947 to 1952, the building served a different purpose, housing a State of Texas vocational school for African-American students, under the direction of James Ledbetter. After 1952, it was used for various light industrial activities until the late 1990s. In 2001, an adaptive use rehabilitation was completed, preserving the building. The G & J Manufacturing Company is recognized as a Dallas Landmark since 2001 and was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2002. This site is historically important for its role in local industry and education.