United States Department of Agriculture South Building, Government office building in Southwest Washington, D.C., United States
The United States Department of Agriculture South Building spans seven stories with around 4,500 rooms along Independence Avenue. The structure comprises twelve north-south wings connected by a central Headhouse and Tailhouse, with limestone surfaces facing the National Mall and brick on the other sides.
Construction began in 1930 during the Great Depression and was completed in 1936. Upon completion, it was the largest office building in the world until the Pentagon was built.
The exterior features relief panels showing native American animals including turkeys, eagles, horses, bulls, and rams, created by sculptor Edwin Morris. These carvings connect the building's purpose to the natural world in a quiet visual way.
Two enclosed pedestrian bridges at the third floor connect this building to the USDA Administration Building, allowing efficient movement between departments. This makes navigating between related office areas convenient and sheltered from the weather.
When completed in 1936, the building was not only an architectural achievement but also a symbol of government work during the economic crisis. The interconnected wings created a maze-like office complex that only insiders could fully navigate.
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