The Frances Building is a beautiful and important old structure in the United States. People often walk by it, take pictures of it, and wonder about its history. This article will take you on a journey to learn more about the Frances Building—where it is, why it’s special, and what makes it a treasure. Let’s dive in together and explore all the interesting things this building has to offer!
Where Is the Frances Building?
The Frances Building is located in Portland, Oregon, a lovely city in the Pacific Northwest part of the United States. It sits in the heart of downtown Portland, right at the corner of Southwest 11th Avenue and Washington Street. This area is known for its unique blend of old and new buildings, parks, and little shops.
The building is easy to spot because it looks quite different from the modern glass towers around it. It has a historic charm that catches your eye. Many people pass by it every day, and some stop to take pictures. The Frances Building has become a small landmark in the neighborhood, not because it’s very big, but because it has a lot of character and history.
Why Is the Frances Building Special?
The Frances Building is special for many reasons. First, it was built a long time ago—in the early 1900s, to be exact. This means it has seen over a century of change in Portland. When it was first built, the city looked very different. There were no big highways, no fancy shopping malls, and no tall skyscrapers. The Frances Building was part of a growing city that was just starting to boom.
Second, the building is known for its architecture. That’s a fancy word for how buildings are designed. The Frances Building has classic brick walls, large arched windows, and beautiful details that are hard to find in new buildings today. It was designed with care and built to last, which is why it’s still standing strong after all these years.
Another reason it’s special is because it is part of a pair of buildings—the Frances Building and the West Park Building, which were built together and are almost like siblings. They share some design elements and history, and together they add charm to the block they’re on.
What Can You See at the Frances Building?
When you visit the Frances Building, there’s a lot to notice. It’s not just an old building—it’s like a time machine that shows us what life looked like more than 100 years ago. Let’s look at some of the cool things you can see there.
Cool Old Walls and Windows
One of the first things you’ll notice about the Frances Building is its brick walls. These aren’t like modern walls that are smooth and plain. The bricks are deep red and brown, with textured surfaces that show age and strength. The design includes stone details around the windows and doors, which makes it look fancy and strong at the same time.
The windows are especially interesting. They’re tall and arched, which means the tops are curved like a rainbow. These windows were made to let in lots of natural light back when electricity wasn’t as strong or reliable. If you look closely, you might even see some of the original glass panes, which are a bit wavy because of how glass was made long ago.
Inside the Building
Inside the Frances Building, you’ll find spaces that are both historic and modern. Over the years, the inside has been renovated, which means it’s been fixed up and updated. But don’t worry—many of the original wooden floors, tin ceilings, and brick walls are still there.
Today, the Frances Building is often used for offices, small shops, or creative spaces. Some people say it has a cozy feeling because it mixes old charm with new uses. When you step inside, you might feel like you’re in a cool little museum that’s still alive and working.
Outside View Is Amazing
From the outside, the Frances Building is a treat to look at. It has that vintage look that makes it stand out in photos. If you take a walk around it, you’ll see decorative cornices (those are the fancy edges near the roof), as well as signs of the building’s age, like little cracks or worn bricks that tell stories of time passing by.
There are also flower boxes on some windows, and sometimes art installations are displayed nearby, adding even more character to the view. It’s a place where old meets new in the best way.
Who Built the Frances Building?
The Frances Building was constructed in the early 1900s by people who wanted to help Portland grow into a modern city. While exact records can be hard to find, the building was part of a wave of commercial buildings that popped up during a time when Portland was booming.
Architects and builders back then took pride in their work. They used strong materials and paid attention to every little detail. The design was made to be useful but also beautiful. Many people believe the Frances Building was named after someone special—maybe a loved one or a respected community member named Frances. It was common in those days to name buildings after people.
Over the years, different owners have cared for the building, making sure it stays strong and safe while keeping its historical look.
What Is the Frances Building Used for Today?
Today, the Frances Building is still very much alive and in use. It is no longer just a piece of history to be looked at from the outside. Instead, it has become a functional space where people work, create, and connect.
Many of the spaces inside are rented out as offices, studios, or small businesses. Some people run design firms, art spaces, or boutique shops inside. Others use the rooms for tech startups or creative agencies. The old charm of the building makes it a favorite spot for those who want a place that feels unique and inspiring.
Because of its central location, the Frances Building is also popular with people who want to be close to the energy of downtown Portland. It’s surrounded by parks, coffee shops, and other interesting places.
Fun Facts About the Frances Building
Even though the Frances Building isn’t a giant skyscraper or famous worldwide, it has many fun and surprising facts that make it stand out.
It’s Super Old
The Frances Building is over 100 years old! That means it has survived things like world wars, economic changes, and urban development. It’s a survivor. Buildings like this are important because they remind us of where we came from and how cities have grown.
Famous People Visited
Over the years, many artists, writers, and business people have worked in or visited the Frances Building. Some local celebrities and cultural leaders have held events there or used it for creative projects. It might not be a Hollywood hotspot, but it has played a quiet and steady role in Portland’s cultural life.
Can You Visit the Frances Building?
Yes, you can visit the Frances Building! Since it’s used for businesses and shops, people are often welcome to come in—especially if you’re visiting one of the shops or studios inside. Just remember to be polite and respectful since people might be working there.
You can also walk around outside, take photos, and admire its details. It’s especially beautiful in the early morning or late afternoon light, when the sun makes the red bricks glow.
Thoughts – Why Should We Know About It?
The Frances Building teaches us that every building has a story. It shows us how people lived and worked a long time ago. It also reminds us that old things can still have value today. When we care for buildings like the Frances Building, we are protecting our history and learning how to blend the past with the future.
Even though it’s not as famous as some monuments, it’s an important piece of the puzzle that makes up Portland’s identity. It’s a place where history, community, and creativity come together.
The Bottom Line
The Frances Building may be small in size, but it’s big in heart. With its old bricks, beautiful windows, and long history, it tells a story that connects the past to the present. It shows how a building can be more than just walls and floors—it can be a place full of life, memories, and meaning.
If you’re ever in Portland, Oregon, take a walk downtown and stop by the Frances Building. Look up at the windows, touch the bricks, and think about all the people who have passed through its doors over the past 100+ years. You’ll be seeing a living piece of history—and that’s pretty cool!
