United States Post Office and Courthouse

Introduction

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Built in 1939, the United States Post Office and Courthouse was the city's first federal building and the only one, at the time, in northeastern Montana. By the time it was built, Glasgow had become a key economic center in the region, which is why the federal government decided to build it. It is also notable for its Starved Classicism architecture. As that term suggests, this style incorporates elements of Classical architecture and tones them down, creating a more simple design. This is the case with the Post Office and Courthouse, which includes interesting features such as a buff-colored brick exterior, a slightly recessed central entry, and four fluted piers (elements that look like columns). Courthouse functions have moved elsewhere but the building continues to operate as a post office.

Images

The historic United States Post Office and Courthouse was built in 1939.

Backstory and Context

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Like the rest of the country during the Great Depression, which began in 1929, Glasgow's economy, which was mostly based on agriculture, declined significantly. However, fortunately for Glasgow and other communities in the region, the construction of the Fort Peck Dam revived the local economy. The project, which was funded by the federal government as part of the "New Deal," brought in an influx of federal investment and, importantly, provided jobs to thousands of workers. Glasgow's economy revived as a result and the town reestablished itself as a key regional center. The Post Office and Courthouse building, then, also symbolizes the impact of the New Deal in Montana. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1986.

Sources

Kolva, H.J. "Glasgow Post Offcie & Courthouse." National Park Service - National Register of Historic Places Nomination Form. March 21, 1986. https://npgallery.nps.gov/NRHP/GetAsset/NRHP/86000679_text.

Image Sources(Click to expand)

Wikimedia Commons: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:United_States_Post_Office_and_Courthouse_-_Glasgow_Main_(2013)_-_Valley_County,_Montana.png