From Past to Present: Bend’s Iconic Post Office Undergoes Historic Restoration

A Symbol of American Prosperity in the 1930s

The historic old post office in Bend was constructed during a time of economic revitalization following the Great Depression, serving as a manifestation of the resilience of the American spirit. The federal government, eager to stimulate growth and job creation, approved funding for the project in June 1930 under President Hoover’s Public Buildings Program. The City of Bend, buoyed by its thriving timber industry, was a fitting location for such an investment.

The property selected for construction was the site of the J.M. Lawrence Building, once a central fixture in the budding town. The building served as an early home for the Bend library, and the local paper, The Bend Bulletin. Due to a fire in the 1920s, the building was abandoned by the time plans for the post office were rolled out in the early 1930s.

Construction on the post office began in the spring of 1932 and was finished in July 1933. The building’s architectural plans were developed by the federal government under the direction of James A. Wetmore, the supervising architect of the Treasury. While the building was designed in the stripped Neo-Classical style, which was typical of federal buildings during this era, Art Deco flourishes were incorporated, lending a unique touch.

The building materials include a staggering 175,000 bricks, terra-cotta, and Utah marble in a medium shade of golden travis, underscoring a commitment to durability and decadence not previously found in public buildings in the region. Whenever possible, local contractors and materials were used. The sum of these efforts was a structure that not only met practical needs but also symbolized an era of renewed prosperity and ambition.

The Heart of Community Connection

For over half a century, the Bend post office served as more than just a mail center; it was the heartbeat of community interaction. Nestled at the junction of NW Wall Street and NW Franklin Avenue in downtown, the building provided a central meeting point and link between residential and commercial areas.

People from all walks of life—whether dropping off letters, catching up with neighbors, or conducting business—found themselves united by this shared space. This historic Bend, Oregon site fostered a unique sense of belonging and mutual support among residents.

The Post Office’s Relocation in the Late 20th Century

By the 1970s, Bend’s rapid growth rendered the old post office too small to meet the city’s needs. Plans were made to relocate the main postal operations to a new, more spacious facility on NE Fourth Street. In 1978, the transition was completed, leaving the historic building to be repurposed for county office use.

Although it no longer served as a post office, the building’s architectural and historical significance was recognized, leading to its inclusion on the National Register of Historic Places in 1985. This designation helped ensure that its legacy would be preserved, even as its function within the community evolved. The building was sold into private ownership and served as office space for several decades before being sold to the current owners in 2020.

The Vision for a Historic Building Restoration

The transformation of the historic old post office into a boutique hotel is a meticulous endeavor to preserve the building’s historical essence while introducing modern amenities and comforts.

Honoring the architectural integrity of the 1930s design was paramount. Seasoned experts, R&H Construction and Emerick Architects, were brought on board to thoughtfully restore elements like the original bricks, marble, and significant architectural details.

The Westman Hotel will feature 23 distinctive rooms and suites. The unique and elegant aesthetic is inspired by the landscape and practical luxuries, bringing a completely novel, high-end lodging experience to Bend.

Communal spaces, incorporated into the design, echo the building’s original role as a gathering point, fostering a sense of connection among guests. As a destination that bridges history and modernity, The Westman promises to offer travelers a distinctive and enriching experience deeply rooted in Bend’s cultural heritage.

Economic and Cultural Impact on Bend

The revitalization of the old post office as The Westman brings with it a wave of economic and cultural benefits for Bend. As a boutique hotel, The Westman is anticipated to contribute to the economic vibrancy of the area.

The owners are committed to continuing the legacy of hiring Oregon businesses to support the project. The conscientious work being done by R&H Construction and Emerick Architects ensures that the building’s historical significance is not lost, but rather, highlighted in a modern context. By preserving the architectural integrity of the 1930s design, the project honors the craftsmanship and materials of a bygone era, enriching the cultural landscape of Bend.

Beyond economic gains, The Westman is set to become a cultural landmark, reinforcing Bend’s identity as a city that cherishes its history while embracing new opportunities. The hotel will host events and gatherings that celebrate local arts, culture, and history, providing a venue for community engagement. This blend of old and new not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of downtown Bend but also fosters a deeper appreciation for the city’s heritage among both residents and visitors.

In transforming a historic structure into a vibrant, functional space, The Westman exemplifies how preservation and innovation can coexist. This project not only safeguards the past but also catalyzes future growth, making it a pivotal addition to Bend’s ever-evolving story.