Timberline Lodge Amphitheater Case Study

Preservation in Action Award Recipient

USDA Forest Service/RLK & Company – owner/manager
Friends of Timberline Lodge
Richard Zita, Bramare Landscape Architecture
Cascadian Landscaper’s – general contractor

 

Here we celebrate historic preservation of a different nature. Timberline Lodge is one of the great lodges constructed by the Works Progress Administration (WPA) during the 1930’s. The amphitheater was an integral part of the lodge master plan, tucked into the landscape and strategically sited on axis between Mt. Hood and Mt. Jefferson.

Over time, weather and neglect took its toll on the cedar steps, posts, and benches, and by 2000 it lay in ruin. Using historic documentation, a rehabilitation plan with ongoing management options was developed - and over $180,000 of private funding was raised.

The intent was to celebrate the craftsmanship of the original builders. Local craftsmen were engaged who had a real affinity for the project. Benches were built to tight tolerances, logs cut to match with precise notching and a “draw knife” finish. Masons researched methods from the 1930’s and adapted period techniques for the fire pit area. Now the amphitheater is used every weekend during the summer for lodge events and private ceremonies and its open to the public for all to enjoy.

More Photos of the Timberline Lodge Amphitheater

Click to enlarge the images below.