Gordon Strong Automobile Objective
The Gordon Strong Automobile Objective was a proposed planetarium, restaurant, and scenic overlook designed by American architect Frank Lloyd Wright for the top of Sugarloaf Mountain in Maryland. Wright developed the design in 1925 on commission from Chicago businessman Gordon Strong. A spiraling ramp featured centrally in Wright's plan; this was his first use of a feature which would later gain fame as part of his Guggenheim Museum in New York.
Sugarloaf Mountain, the proposed site, as it exists today.
Sugarloaf Mountain (Maryland)
Sugarloaf Mountain is a small mountain and park about 10 miles (16 km) south of Frederick, Maryland. The closest village is Barnesville, located just over one mile from the foot of the mountain. The peak of this relatively low mountain is approximately 800 feet higher than the surrounding farmland. It is visible from many parts of northern Montgomery County and southern Frederick County, notably from I-270 north of the town of Germantown. Because of its geological and natural history interest, it was designated a National Natural Landmark in 1969. It is a notable example of an admission-free, privately owned scenic park.
Sugarloaf Mountain, sunset
1971 air photo, showing the complex structure. Width of image is approximately 4.7 miles.
The scenic overlook at Sugarloaf Mountain
View at the top during fall