Historic Resource Survey Form : Erb Memorial Union
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Date
2006
Authors
Johnson, Susan
Pochert, Erin
Flathman, Jennifer
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Oregon
Abstract
Though construction of the Erb Memorial Union ended in 1950, plans, developments, and budgeting for the building started as
early as 1924. There was a renewed vigor and interest in 1944 and in 1946 preliminary building plans were developed by the
architectural firm of Ellis Lawrence, Tucker, and Walman. The original design was actually by Ellis Lawrence, but he passed away
before the design process was completed. It was finished by his son, H. Abbott Lawrence, and the building lost much of the
monumental character of the original design but still maintained its large massing. It is a reinforced concrete building with a brick
veneer that covers one-third of a block in the “Heart of Campus.” Construction began in 1949 and finished in 1950. Named after an exuniversity
president, Donald M. Erb, the student union held a cafeteria, soda bar, clubs, offices, bowling alleys, and room for dances.
The second floor of the north wing is an exact replica of the Knight Library’s original browsing room. It was built with intention to move
some collections to this secondary browsing room to free up space in the library.
The first addition (the north addition) was completed in 1962. It consisted of a newer and larger cafeteria with more dining
seats available, the finishing of the basement and first floors, and the refurbishing of eight bowling alley lanes. The architects for this
addition were H. Abbott Lawrence, Tucker, & Walman. The second addition (the east addition) completed in 1972 was the construction
of what is today known as the “ the skylight” lounge built in the Brutalism style. Its upper floors are surrounded by glass on all sides.
One of the interesting aspects of this addition is the unique old growth Douglas fir wood flooring. The architect for this addition was
Colburn/Sheldon, Lutes/Amundson with James Lambert and Associates as the Landscape Architect. There were also renovations to
the Fishbowl in 1980, ballroom alterations in 1986, and in 1998 an amphitheater was built at the front entrance. These additions and
other interior alterations have significantly changed the original building and the landscape.
Description
4 pages
Keywords
architecture, history, cultural resources survey