The Oregonian Building

The Oregonian Building is a Romanesque Revival office structure in downtown Portland featuring distinctive architectural details on its facade. Red sandstone forms the first two floors, while upper levels display buff-colored brick accented with terra cotta ornamental work.

The building was constructed in 1892 as Portland's first steel-framed structure, holding the title of the city's tallest building until 1911. This architectural innovation marked Portland's emergence as a modern urban center with advanced construction techniques.

The building housed Portland's first commercial radio station, KGW, starting in 1922, which became central to how locals received news and entertainment. The space reflected how media companies shaped the city's growing role in regional communications.

The building originally had two elevators to serve its thirteen floors and accommodate the large office spaces within. Visitors should keep in mind that the original layout and systems may have been modified depending on current use and renovations.

The building housed the United States Weather Bureau's official recording station in its tower from 1892 to 1902. This station collected important weather data that served the region during the early days of the national weather service.

Location: Portland

Architects: James W. Reid

Architectural style: Romanesque Revival architecture

Elevators: 2

GPS coordinates: 45.51999,-122.67842

Latest update: December 11, 2025 11:02