511 Federal Building facts for kids
The 511 Federal Building is a cool old building in Portland, Oregon. It used to be a big post office where people sent letters and packages. Today, it's a vibrant art school called the Arlene and Harold Schnitzer Center for Art and Design, part of the Pacific Northwest College of Art (PNCA). PNCA moved into this building in February 2015 after it was completely updated. This big change cost about $32 million.
Quick facts for kids |
|
|
U.S. Post Office (Portland, Oregon)
|
|
511 Federal Building
|
|
 Location in Portland, Oregon
Location in Oregon
Location in the United States
|
|
| Location | 511 NW Broadway Portland, Oregon |
|---|---|
| Built | 1916–1918 |
| Architect | Lewis P. Hobart |
| Architectural style | Classical Revival |
| NRHP reference No. | 79002143 |
| Added to NRHP | April 18, 1979 |
Contents
History of the 511 Federal Building
This building was constructed between 1916 and 1918. It officially opened its doors in 1919. The idea for the building came from the Secretary of the Treasury, who is a very important government official in charge of money. This was one of the last post offices built under a special law called the Tarsney Act. The building cost about $1 million to build back then.
Who Designed the Building?
A talented architect named Lewis P. Hobart designed the 511 Federal Building. He created a design that looks strong and classic.
Where is the Building Located?
The building is located in Portland, Oregon. It sits between two interesting neighborhoods: Old Town Chinatown and the Pearl District. It's easy to find at 511 NW Broadway.
A Historic Landmark
Because of its importance and age, the building was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1979. This list includes places that are important to American history. It was listed as the U.S. Post Office.
Building Size and Features
The 511 Federal Building is six stories tall. It covers a large area, about 20,000 square feet. It also has a basement and a sub-basement. In the lower levels, there are old, walled-off tunnels.
Past Occupants of the Building
Before the art school moved in, the building was used by different parts of the United States government. These included offices for the Department of Homeland Security. This department helps keep the country safe. It also housed parts of the Department of Agriculture, which deals with farming and food.
Gallery
-
Circa 1920 picture of the building, viewed from the southeast
-
2015 picture, shortly after completion of renovation work
-
511 Building Cornerstone
-
East entrance in 2008
-
Cast bronze lamp over entrance
.jpg)
