Towering in grandeur and rich with history, the Forestry Building in Portland, Oregon, stood as a majestic “temple of timber” that captivated all who beheld its splendor. Built in 1905 for the Lewis and Clark Exposition, this architectural wonder was a testament to the abundant forestry resources of the Pacific Northwest.

Crafted from colossal Douglas fir logs, some boasting diameters of up to six feet and lengths of fifty-four feet, the building’s design was a sight to behold. Its towering columns, intricate wooden arches, and cathedral-like interior left visitors in awe, showcasing the region’s natural beauty and economic prosperity stemming from its timber industry.

Inside the Forestry Building, exhibits proudly displayed the bounty of Oregon’s forests, from giant logs to finely crafted furniture, highlighting the diverse array of wood found in the area. The exterior, adorned with a log facade blending seamlessly with the encompassing forest, symbolized the strong bond between the region and its natural surroundings.

Tragically, on August 17, 1964, a devastating fire ravaged the iconic structure, reducing it to ashes and leaving behind only memories and monochrome photographs. The loss of the Forestry Building reverberated deeply within the community, stripping away a symbol of Portland’s heritage and connection to nature, and a striking example of early 20th-century log architecture.

Today, the Forestry Building is remembered as a poignant monument to Oregon’s timber legacy, a fleeting yet profound tribute to the resilience and beauty of the state’s forests. Its legacy endures in the hearts of those who cherish its memory, a reminder of a bygone era when a structure of timber and dreams stood tall in the City of Roses.