Linn Argyle Forrest, Sr. (1905 – 1987)[1][2] was an American architect of Juneau, Alaska who worked to restore "authentic Southeast Alaska Native architecture, especially totem poles". During the 1930s he oversaw Civilian Conservation Corps programs to preserve totem poles and other aspects of traditional, native architecture. In conjunction with a $24,000 U.S. grant to the Alaska Native Brotherhood as a CCC project, Forrest oversaw the construction of the Shakes Island Community House and totems at Wrangell, Alaska during 1937-1939. Drawing on this experience, he later authored The Wolf and the Raven: Totem Poles of Southeastern Alaska which went through 20 editions.[3]
He designed the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center[4] and, with Harold Foss, also designed the nearby Chapel by the Lake.
Forrest came to Alaska after working in the 1930s in Oregon, where he was the lead exterior designer of Timberline Lodge on Mount Hood.[5][6]
He is the architect of record of the Oregon State Forester's Office Building, at 2600 State St. in Salem, Oregon, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.[7] At one time he worked for the architecture group within the United States Forest Service Northwest regional office.[8]
With his son, he designed the Alaska State Centennial Museum.[9]