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Old U.S. Post Office

Introduction

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The former Williston U.S. Post Office building stands prominently on the corner of Main and 4th Streets. Built in 1915 with brick and a limestone exterior, it is a striking example of Classical Revival architecture. Its interesting features include a symmetrical design, large columns topped with composite Ionic and Corinthian capitals, and decorative stonework. It is currently used as an office building called Renaissance Station and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

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The Old U.S. Post Office was built in 1915. It is a fine example of Classical Revival architecture, which is unique in Williston and western North Dakota.

The Old U.S. Post Office was built in 1915. It is a fine example of Classical Revival architecture, which is unique in Williston and western North Dakota.

Backstory and Context

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The post office was designed by Oscar Wenderoth, who was at the time the Supervisory Architect of the Treasury Department. The use of the Classical Revival style is uncommon in North Dakota and even more so in the western part of the state. The Old Post Office, then, is a unique landmark in Williston, which adds to its historical significance. In addition, the building also represents the period in which the federal government occupied it (1915 to 1969) and the impact the post office and other various federal agencies had on the city. For over 50 years, these included the Internal Revenue Service, Navy Recruiting Station, and the Soil Conservation Service. The city acquired the building 1969 and converted it to office space.

Sources

Schweigert, Kurt. "Old U.S. Post Office." National Park Service - National Register of Historic Places Nomination Form. October 22, 1979. https://npgallery.nps.gov/NRHP/GetAsset/NRHP/79003729_text.

Image Sources(Click to expand)

Wikimedia Commons: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:OLD_U.S._POST_OFFICE.jpg

Additional Information