Electric Building (Portland, Oregon) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Electric Building
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The Electric Building in 2018
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 Location in Portland, Oregon
Location in Oregon
Location in the United States
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| Location | 621 SW Alder Street Portland, Oregon |
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| Area | 0.2 acres (0.081 ha) |
| Built | 1910 |
| Architect | Carl L. Linde, Hurley Mason Co. |
| Architectural style | Chicago, Commercial Style |
| NRHP reference No. | 89000059 |
| Added to NRHP | February 23, 1989 |
The Electric Building is a historic building located in downtown Portland, Oregon. It was built in 1910 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This means it's recognized as an important part of the country's history. The building was originally created for the Portland Railway, Light and Power Company. It served as their main office and also housed a big power station that helped generate electricity for the city.
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The Electric Building: A Look Back
The Electric Building has a fascinating past. It played a key role in bringing power to Portland in the early 20th century.
Built for Power and Progress
In 1910, the Portland Railway, Light and Power Company needed a new home. They wanted a building that could be both their main office and a place to generate electricity. This is why they built the Electric Building. It was a very modern building for its time, designed to handle the growing demand for electricity in Portland.
The company was in charge of many things. They managed the city's streetcar system and also provided electricity. So, this building was a central hub for their operations. Imagine a place where you could manage a whole city's power and transportation!
Who Designed It?
The building was designed by Carl L. Linde and the Hurley Mason Company. Carl L. Linde was a well-known architect in Portland. He designed many important buildings in the city. The Hurley Mason Company helped bring his designs to life.
A Special Style: Chicago and Commercial
The Electric Building is a great example of the "Chicago" and "Commercial Style" of architecture. This style was popular in the early 1900s. Buildings in this style often have strong, simple lines. They also use a lot of windows to let in natural light. This was important for offices and industrial spaces. The design focused on being useful and efficient.
Why the Electric Building is Special
The Electric Building is not just an old building. It's a landmark that tells a story about Portland's growth.
A Historic Landmark
Because of its importance, the Electric Building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This is a list of places across the United States that are considered historically significant. Being on this list helps protect the building. It ensures that its history and unique design are preserved for future generations. It's also recognized as a "Portland Historic Landmark" by the city itself.
What It Looks Like Today
Even though it's over 100 years old, the Electric Building still stands tall in downtown Portland. Its classic design and strong structure remind us of its original purpose. It's a piece of history that you can see and appreciate every day.
