Oakland City Hall

The Oakland City Hall rises eighteen floors with a white granite and terracotta exterior, featuring classical elements of Beaux-Arts architecture throughout its facade.

Completed in 1914, this municipal building held the title of tallest structure west of the Mississippi River and became the first major government building in the United States.

The City Hall maintains its position as the center of Oakland's civic life, hosting government meetings, public ceremonies, and community gatherings since its construction.

Located in Frank H. Ogawa Plaza, the building houses the mayor's office, city council chambers, and various administrative departments of Oakland's municipal government.

The structure incorporates seismic protection through rubber bearings at its foundation, allowing lateral movement of up to 50 centimeters during earthquakes.

Location: Oakland

Inception: 1914

Architects: Henry Hornbostel

Architectural style: Beaux-Arts

Floors above the ground: 18

Address: 1421 Washington Street

GPS coordinates: 37.80530,-122.27200

Latest update: September 23, 2025 14:24