In the early 20th century, Portland, Oregon, was home to one of the largest log structures ever built—the majestic Forestry Building. Constructed in 1905 for the Lewis and Clark Exposition, the building was a tribute to the Pacific Northwest’s abundant timber resources and a showcase of the region’s forestry industry. Known as the “temple of timber,” it was an awe-inspiring feat of architecture that left visitors speechless with its sheer size and craftsmanship.
A Monument of Timber
The Forestry Building was constructed using enormous Douglas fir logs, some of which measured up to six feet in diameter and stretched an astounding fifty-four feet in length. These massive timbers formed the foundation of a grand structure that stood as a testament to the strength and beauty of Oregon’s forests. Towering wooden columns supported an intricate system of beams and arches, creating an interior space that felt more like a vast cathedral than a simple exhibition hall. Sunlight filtered through the wooden framework, casting warm, golden hues across the intricate carvings and handcrafted details that adorned the space.
A Celebration of the Forestry Industry
Inside, the Forestry Building housed exhibits that highlighted the region’s forestry industry, displaying Oregon’s rich timber resources in all their glory. Visitors could marvel at massive logs, ornately carved furniture, and an array of wood samples that demonstrated the incredible variety and utility of Pacific Northwest timber. The structure itself served as the ultimate exhibit—its grand size and elegant craftsmanship symbolized the economic and cultural significance of the timber industry in Oregon.
The exterior of the building was just as striking as its interior. The massive log facade seamlessly blended with the surrounding landscape, reinforcing Oregon’s deep connection to its forests. The Forestry Building stood as a powerful statement about the role of nature in shaping the state’s identity and economy, drawing admiration from visitors and industry professionals alike.
The Tragic Fire of 1964
For nearly six decades, the Forestry Building remained a beloved landmark in Portland. However, tragedy struck on the night of August 17, 1964, when a devastating fire broke out and consumed the entire structure. The dry timber, which had stood proudly for almost sixty years, ignited quickly, and within hours, the great log cathedral was reduced to smoldering ruins.
The loss of the Forestry Building was deeply felt throughout the community. Not only was it an architectural wonder, but it was also a living tribute to Oregon’s timber heritage. Its destruction left a void in Portland’s cultural landscape, and despite the presence of photographs and accounts of its grandeur, nothing could truly replace the experience of standing beneath its towering log columns.
Remembering an Architectural Marvel
Today, the Forestry Building exists only in memories and historical records. Its legacy, however, remains deeply woven into Oregon’s history. The “temple of timber” was more than just a building; it was a symbol of the Pacific Northwest’s natural wealth and the industry that shaped the region. Though the flames may have erased its physical presence, its impact on Portland and its people endures.
The Forestry Building stood as a breathtaking example of early 20th-century log architecture, a structure that for a time embodied the spirit of Oregon’s timber past. While it no longer graces the landscape, it remains an enduring symbol of the strength, beauty, and importance of the state’s forests—an unforgettable chapter in Portland’s history.
