Historic Resource Survey Form : Knight Library
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Date
2006
Authors
Johnson, Susan
Helwick, Sarah
Steverson, Erica
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Oregon
Abstract
Ellis Fuller Lawrence’s original plan called for an auditorium to be built in this site, as the termination of the south axis and most
important building in his beaux-arts plan. The axis extended from the auditorium to Dad’s Gates and beyond to the train station.
However, the decision was made by President Hall to build a library in its place. The library was funded by the Public Works
Administration (“PWA”) and the Works Progress Administration (“WPA”) program funds and is representative of the last surge of
building before WWII. The library has been referred to as Oregon’s best example of integrated art and architecture. It is the most fully
executed of Lawrence’s buildings incorporating sculpture, painting and metalwork, much done by students, graduates and professors.
Much of the interior artwork is mostly intact. The building’s name was changed in 1994 to honor Phillip Knight, President and CEO of
Nike, Inc and a University of Oregon alum.
Knight Library, along with the Memorial Quad, was listed on the National Register of Historic Places on March 9, 1990. The original
Lawrence building from 1937 was nominated and listed and the 1950 and 1966 additions were listed as non-contributing. At the time
the National Park Service accepted the building, the 1994 addition had yet to be built. The library was listed under criteria A and C: it
was listed under A because it was funded by Public Works Administration funds and listed under C as a significant element in
Lawrence’s Beaux Arts plan and for the fine craftsmanship displayed on the exterior and interior of the library. The original portion of
the building is listed in the nomination as Beaux Arts Eclecticism while the additions are Modernistic. Some elements of the original
design reflect a “moderne” character including the decorative motifs, and functional elements such as entrance lanterns.
Description
6 pages
Keywords
history, architecture, cultural resources survey