National Guard Armory

WPA – 1936-37
Tourtellotte & Hummel

Though designed and partially constructed in 1931, the minimalistic Art Deco structure was substantially enlarged under the Works Progress Administration. This construction included the central, vaulted cavalry drill hall and the administrative offices housed in the two-story front section. It was built for nearly $60,000, and when completed, was the largest armory in the state. Later additions were built in 1956, and the National Guard occupied the structure until it was sold to the State of Idaho in the mid-1970s and later purchased by the City of Boise.

Features to Note

• Board-formed concrete with visible poured-in-place lines
• Triangular geometric motifs
• Arched roof of the central drill hall

Additional Resources

• Learn more about local efforts to preserve this historic structure.

Photo Gallery