United States Forest Service Building

The U.S. Forest Service Building in Ogden, Utah, is not just a structure; it is a testament to the resilience and ingenuity of a bygone era. Nestled within the Ogden Central Bench Historic District at 507 25th Street, this building has stood the test of time since its construction in the early 1930s. For those with an affinity for history, architecture, or simply a desire to explore the lesser-known gems of Ogden, this building is a must-visit.

The Historical Significance

Built during the Great Depression, the U.S. Forest Service Building was one of the first projects funded by the Works Progress Administration (WPA), a cornerstone of President Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal. The building's purpose was to provide offices for the U.S. Forest Service Intermountain Region, the Experimental Station, and the Supply Depot. Its construction was completed in 1934 by the Murch Brothers Construction Company of St. Louis, Missouri, under the architectural guidance of Hodgson & McClenahan. This local firm was renowned for its meticulous attention to detail and innovative designs.

Ogden was chosen as the site for the district headquarters of the U.S. Forest Service in 1908, primarily due to its favorable railroad rates, robust business community, and local amenities. This decision significantly boosted Ogden's status as a hub of federal activity, a reputation that the city maintains to this day. The building's historical importance was recognized in 1983 when it was listed in the National Register of Historic Places as part of the Ogden Art Deco Buildings Thematic Resources Nomination. It received an individual listing in 2006, further cementing its status as a historic landmark.

An Architectural Marvel

The U.S. Forest Service Building is a striking example of Art Deco architecture, a style characterized by its modern appeal, vertical emphasis, and stylized ornamentation. The building's facade is a visual feast, featuring a gradual transition of brick colors from darker tan at the base to lighter beige at the upper stories. This effect was achieved using eight different shades of brick, meticulously placed to create a harmonious gradient. Terra-cotta detailing and a grey granite foundation from California's Raymond Granite quarry add to the building's aesthetic appeal.

The building's symmetrical facade faces Twenty-fifth Street and is dominated by regularly spaced windows with aluminum mullions. Tall brick pilasters accentuate the building's verticality, while terra-cotta spandrels adorned with zigzag motifs and stylized foliated decorations top the window openings. The flat roof features a centrally placed three-story penthouse tower with a glass-topped greenhouse, used for agency studies and experiments. A tall brick chimney, displaying the same skillful color gradation, is located at the southeast corner of the building.

Exploring the Interior

Stepping inside, visitors are greeted by a richly ornamented interior, a hallmark of the Art Deco style. The vestibule and main lobby are adorned with Utah Golden Travise marble walls and Verde Antique marble baseboards. An elaborate cast-plaster crown molding, covered in a metallic silver glaze, tops the walls. The central staircase, accessible through an arched opening with stepped, rectilinear forms, is clad in the same marble and features wood handrails with octagonal cross-sections.

The corridors leading from the lobby retain their original wood wainscot cap with the ubiquitous stepped profile. While some sections of flooring have been replaced or covered, select areas still boast original rubber tiles laid in a tri-color diamond pattern. The main entrance, a recessed doorway with a wide, incised surround, is flanked by two carved, stylized eagles and the U.S. Forest Service insignia.

A Living Landmark

Today, the U.S. Forest Service Building continues to serve its original purpose, housing the offices of the U.S. Forest Service, the Internal Revenue Service, and the USDA Office of General Counsel. Despite the passage of time, the building has undergone minimal alterations, preserving its architectural integrity and historical significance. The few modifications that have been made, such as the renovation of original storage areas into offices between 1939 and 1940 and the replacement of roofing in 1963, have been carefully executed to maintain the building's character.

As you explore the U.S. Forest Service Building, take a moment to appreciate the historical marker placed by the State of Utah in the main lobby. This marker acknowledges the building's significance as one of Ogden's finest examples of Art Deco architecture and its role in the city's development as a federal hub.

Visiting the U.S. Forest Service Building

Whether you're a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply curious about Ogden's past, the U.S. Forest Service Building offers a unique glimpse into the city's heritage. Its enduring presence and well-preserved state make it a noteworthy stop on any tour of Ogden. As you stand before its grand facade and step through its ornate entrance, you'll be transported back to a time when craftsmanship and attention to detail were paramount, and you'll gain a deeper appreciation for the stories etched into its walls.

In conclusion, the U.S. Forest Service Building is more than just a historic structure; it is a symbol of Ogden's resilience and a testament to the enduring legacy of the New Deal era. Its Art Deco charm and historical significance make it an unmissable attraction for anyone visiting this vibrant city.