U.S. Forest Service Building (Ogden, Utah)

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The U.S. Forest Service Building is located at 507 25th Street in Ogden, Utah. It is listed as a Historic Federal Building (GSA Building #: UT0010ZZ), and was constructed during the years 1933-1934. Its primary task was to provide offices for the U.S. Forest Service Intermountain Region. the Experimental Station and the Supply Depot.

[edit] Significance

The Ogden, Utah architectural firm of Hodgson & McClenahan began the project in 1932, while construction began in 1933. Murch Brothers Construction, of St. Louis, Missouri, finished construction in 1934.

The Forest Service Building was one of the first buildings built under the Works Projects Administration (WPA). Its construction was a result of the government's desire to stimulate growth during the Great Depression. As the earliest Federal building in Ogden, it paved a way for what has become the largest employer in Ogden.

The building is a fine example of the Art Deco building style. This style incorporates detailed decorative surfaces that include stepped silhouettes and geometric detailing. It is one of three buildings in Ogden that adhere to this style, all of which are included in a National Register Thematic Nomination "Ogden Art Deco Buildings." The State of Utah placed a historical marker in the main lobby to acknowledge this significance.

The offices of the U.S. Forest Service have remained operational to the present day. The Internal Revenue Service and the USDA Office of General Counsel also share offices in the building. Because of the unique nature of the building, it has become a well-known landmark. Few modifications have been made to the building and it has been well maintained over the years.

[edit] References

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