Architectural Fashions: An influx of new immigrants and easier access to ideas, publications, and building materials from other areas contributed to marked changes in the appearance of Oregon buildings in the decades following the Civil War.

New Architects of Fashion: The rise of architectural professionalism in Oregon came in the 1870s, paralleling a national development. 

Building Materials: Wood, Brick, Stone: While wood remained a primary building material in Oregon structures, brick, masonry, stone and wrought iron were used in the later nineteenth century to add height, complexity, and ornamentation.

Industry and Agriculture in the Railroad Era: Railroad links to the rest of the country not only spawned an industrial infrastructure of its own but also allowed  industries tied to Oregon’s natural resources to blossom.

The Public Face of Public Life: The growth of the state’s population, particularly outside the Willamette Valley, led to the establishment of ten new counties between 1882 and 1899, which called for associated government buildings.

Expansive Ranching: As the establishment of new county governments makes clear, by the 1890s thousands of people had settled east of the Cascade Mountains and were making a livelihood there despite the rough terrain and transportation difficulties.

The Portland Domination: Portland’s stature as a regional influence became evident by the beginning of the twentieth century.