The lovely old Congress Hotel stood on the northeast corner of SW 6th and Main from its completion in 1912 until it was demolished in 1977. This undated photo is probably 1973-77 era (I think the white car is a 1973 Mercury Comet). Four terracotta arches from the old hotel still frame the entrance to an underground restaurant on that corner.
(University of Oregon Libraries)
Tags: Oregon, Portland, Trailways Bus, TriMet
July 20, 2012 at 10:48 am
My what a lovely (!) color on the old bus station.
Street View: http://goo.gl/maps/rKEL
July 20, 2012 at 11:43 am
There is a TriMet Flxible bus from at least 1971 in the background. That one is either 35′ or 40′ long, although many of those were 35′ long. I wonder if the downtown mall already is in the “Fareless Square” phase, considering that opened to downtown riders in January 1975?
July 20, 2012 at 1:59 pm
I still have an old fashioned hat rack I bought at the Congress Hotel for $10.00 when they sold out the contents. It was painted a nasty green, but I had it striped and stained natural. Still use it, great wood made to last.
July 20, 2012 at 2:59 pm
so THAT is why that fondue place is so elaborately enshrined! Thanks.
July 20, 2012 at 6:57 pm
The 23 story, dark glass high-rise now on this location pays homage to its predecessor with the terra cotta arches, and also in name. Congress Center was erected in 1980, designed by the prolific ‘Skidmore, Owings and Merrill’ architectural firm, who were also responsible for the U.S. Bancorp building three years later. One of their architects is now in charge of constructing the Freedom Tower in Manhattan
July 22, 2012 at 4:29 am
I wondered what the story behind the Melting Pot arches was. Here is a picture.
http://xhogyokux.deviantart.com/art/The-Portland-Statement-279069453