The Leyland cypresses planted on either side of the entrance was a common landscape error made by many in the 1940s; they look fine when they’re small (as seen here) but they grow up to be gigantic imposing monstrosities that obscure the beauty and architecture of all buildings. They’re well suited for hedges. This building’s beauty has been obscured today by these cypresses, untrimmed plants, and tacky blue lettering “Columbia Cottage” along the entry archway.
Beautiful building! I didn’t appreciate it as a youngster. Throughout summer vacations during the 1950’s, this pretty setting was the center for all sorts of recreational activities for younger children. On site staff helped direct some activities & to check out and keep track of equipment for independent play. Older youngsters swam in the unheated pool across the park.
from Wiki “Inverted catenary arch
Catenary arches are often used in the construction of kilns. To create the desired curve, the shape of a hanging chain of the desired dimensions is transferred to a form which is then used as a guide for the placement of bricks or other building material
I can’t think of another example of this kind of arch in Portland but their must be more.
Who was the architect for the building. My guess is it might have been Herman Brookman. Can anyone verify?
Michael Parker
Michael Parker I looked thru newspaper archives and could not find who the architect was for this building. There was a news story in the Oregonian on June 17, 1940 (Page 17) about the dedication of this building which is called a field house costing $10,000 to build, but the only people mentioned the the story are Portland city officials and community club members.
I recall this building from my childhood. Beautiful arch and round windows at each end of building lends distinct touch to the field house/recreation center. The brickwork surrounding the arch is particularly beautiful!
wow cool building built about 1928 1932 love the arch
Vintage Portland 
The Leyland cypresses planted on either side of the entrance was a common landscape error made by many in the 1940s; they look fine when they’re small (as seen here) but they grow up to be gigantic imposing monstrosities that obscure the beauty and architecture of all buildings. They’re well suited for hedges. This building’s beauty has been obscured today by these cypresses, untrimmed plants, and tacky blue lettering “Columbia Cottage” along the entry archway.
Link to see current photo: https://www.focp.org/about-the-cottage.html
Beautiful building! I didn’t appreciate it as a youngster. Throughout summer vacations during the 1950’s, this pretty setting was the center for all sorts of recreational activities for younger children. On site staff helped direct some activities & to check out and keep track of equipment for independent play. Older youngsters swam in the unheated pool across the park.
from Wiki “Inverted catenary arch
Catenary arches are often used in the construction of kilns. To create the desired curve, the shape of a hanging chain of the desired dimensions is transferred to a form which is then used as a guide for the placement of bricks or other building material
I can’t think of another example of this kind of arch in Portland but their must be more.
Who was the architect for the building. My guess is it might have been Herman Brookman. Can anyone verify?
Michael Parker
Michael Parker I looked thru newspaper archives and could not find who the architect was for this building. There was a news story in the Oregonian on June 17, 1940 (Page 17) about the dedication of this building which is called a field house costing $10,000 to build, but the only people mentioned the the story are Portland city officials and community club members.
I recall this building from my childhood. Beautiful arch and round windows at each end of building lends distinct touch to the field house/recreation center. The brickwork surrounding the arch is particularly beautiful!
wow cool building built about 1928 1932 love the arch