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Presidio of San FranciscoCavalry barracks, built 1902
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Presidio of San Francisco
Architecture: World War II Era (1940 - 1945)
Building 40, constructed in 1941.
National Park Service, GGNRA
Constructed on the Main Post in 1941, Building 40 served as a bachelor officers' quarters in the Presidio during World War II.
 
Following the example of other Army bases, the Presidio’s World War II-era buildings were based on standard plans designed for quick and inexpensive construction. As evident in Main Post Building 40, the plans called for very simple rectangular wood-frame buildings with exterior stairs at each end, horizontal wood siding, and asphalt-shingled roofs. This design was applied to all building types indiscriminately; as a result the barracks, mess halls, administrative buildings, post exchanges, chapels, and various other service buildings had similar appearances.
 
Building 37 today.
National Park Service, GGNRA
Though built as a temporary administrative office in 1941, Building 37--along with most other "temporary" buildings constructed at the Presidio during World War II--still stands today.
 
United States Capitol Building  

Did You Know?
In 1872, there was a proposal in Congress for the Presidio to become a San Francisco city park. The Army reported that 800 acres were required for national defense, provided barracks be relocated. Despite Congressman Cole's attempts, however, the Presidio reservation remained intact.

Last Updated: March 05, 2009 at 17:34 EST