Fort Lawton, Post Exchange & Gymnasium, Discovery Park, Seattle, King County, WA

Significance: Architecturally the most formal non-residential building on the post. Originally included amenities such as billiard room, lunch counter, reading room, store, and gym. Completed May 2, 1905, from QMGO Plan No. 157-A. Original cost: $20,701. Dimensions 55' x 113'6". Single story and basement frame and brick construction on sandstone and brick foundations. Lapped cedar siding and painted brick. Asphalt shingle roof replaces original slate. Projecting portico has slate-faced gable, paired Tuscan columns on pedestals. Windows have six-over-two and three-over-three light sash, a circular opening with keystone surround provides light to attic. Interior retains some embossed metal ceilings in basement and gymnasium. Extensively remodelled in 1942 including installation of enclosed mezzanine level in original gymnasium, radical alteration of front entry (partially observing original round-arched portal), and construction of a one-story addition along south side of gym. Metal ceilings 75 percent covered with acoustical tile. Boiler for hot water heating system converted to oil. Electricity replaced mineral oil lamps ca. 1910.
Unprocessed Field note material exists for this structure: FN-36
Survey number: HABS WA-150-S
Building/structure dates: 1905 Initial Construction
Building/structure dates: ca. 1910 Subsequent Work