DESIGN GUIDELINES 

Mt. McKinley National Park Headquarters Historic District: Boundary Expansion (1950-1961) 

DENALI NATIONAL PARK AND PRESERVE 

ALASKA REGIONAL OFFICE 

DIVISION OF CULTURAL RESOURCES 

HISTORIC ARCHITECTURE PROGRAM 

HEATHER FEIL 

NATIONAL PARK SERVICE 

UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR 

2016 
 

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS 

1 INTRODUCTION .......................................................................................................................................................................7 

1.1 Purpose ...................................................................................................................................................................................9 

1.2 Legal Context ............................................................................................. ............................................................................9 

1.3 Agency Policy and Standards ............................................................................................. ............................................... 10 

2 DESIGN REVIEW PROCESS ............................................................................................. .................................................... 13 

2.1 Project Idea/Proposal Phase: ............................................................................................. ............................................... 15 

2.2 Project is Formulated/Funding Approved Phase: .......................................................................................................... 15 

2.3 Good Practices .................................................................................................................................................................... 15 

3 MAP OF HISTORIC DISTRICT ............................................................................................................................................ 19 

3.1 HISTORIC DISTRICT CONTRIBUTING RESOURCES .......................................................................................... 22 

3.2 HISTORIC DISTRICT NON-CONTRIBUTING RESOURCES .............................................................................. 23 

4 DESIGN GUIDELINES BOUNDARy ExPANSION (1950-1961): ................................................................................. 25 

BUILDING 26: ............................................................................................. ............................................................................ 25 

BUILDING 27: ............................................................................................. ............................................................................ 33 

BUILDING 28: ............................................................................................. ............................................................................ 41 

BUILDING 34: ............................................................................................. ............................................................................ 49 

BUILDING 51: ............................................................................................. ............................................................................ 57 

BUILDING 54: ............................................................................................. ............................................................................ 67 

BUILDING 217: ............................................................................................. .......................................................................... 75 

5 DESIGN GUIDELINES: NEW CONSTRUCTION:........................................................................................................... 83 

5.1 Guidelines for New Construction............................................................................................. ....................................... 84 

5.2 New Construction Recommendation.............................................................................................................................. 86 

6 DESIGN GUIDELINES: ORIGINAL CORE DISTRICT (1926-1941): ........................................................................... 87 

BUILDING 12: ............................................................................................. ............................................................................ 89 

BUILDING 13: ............................................................................................. ............................................................................ 95 

BUILDING 21: ............................................................................................. .......................................................................... 101 
 

BUILDING 22: ............................................................................................. .......................................................................... 107 

BUILDING 23: ............................................................................................. .......................................................................... 113 

BUILDING 101: ............................................................................................. ........................................................................ 119 

BUILDING 102: ............................................................................................. ........................................................................ 125 

BUILDING 103: ............................................................................................. ........................................................................ 131 

BUILDING 105: ............................................................................................. ........................................................................ 137 

BUILDING 105A:.............................................................................................. ..................................................................... 143 

BUILDING 105B: ................................................................................................................................................................... 149 

BUILDING 106: ............................................................................................. ........................................................................ 155 

BUILDING 107: ............................................................................................. ........................................................................ 161 

BUILDING 110: ............................................................................................. ........................................................................ 167 

BUILDING 111: ............................................................................................. ........................................................................ 173 

BUILDING 112: ............................................................................................. ........................................................................ 179 

7 DESIGN STANDARDS.......................................................................................................................................................... 185 

7.1 Preservation Standards ............................................................................................. ....................................................... 186 

7.2 Rehabilitation Standards.............................................................................................. .................................................... 187 

7.3 Restoration Standards ............................................................................................. ......................................................... 188 

7.4 Reconstruction Standards ............................................................................................................................................... 189 

8 OVERVIEW: MOUNT MCKINLEy NATIONAL PARK HEADQUARTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT ................... 191 

8.1 Original Core Historic District (1926-1941) ................................................................................................................. 193 

8.1.1 NPS Rustic Architecture.............................................................................................. .............................................. 195 

8.1.1.1 Character Defning Features of NPS Rustic Architecture.............................................................................. 195 

8.2 Boundary Increase for the Historic District: 1950-1961 ............................................................................................. 196 

8.2.1 Post-World War II and Mission 66 Era Architecture............................................................................................. 197 

8.2.1.1 Character Defning Features of Post-World War II Architecture.................................................................. 198 
Design Guidelines: Mt McKinley National Park

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LIST OF FIGURES 

Figure 1: Historic District Map ...............................................................................................................................................................................21 

Figure 2: Building 26 (Single Residence), view to the southwest, Catalog No. DENA 2223, 1963 (Denali National Park and Preserve Archives) .......26 

Figure 3: Building 26, view to the northeast, after rehabilitation, 2014 (NPS Alaska Regional Offce Files). .............................................................28 

Figure 4: Employees Residence, general plan for buildings 27,27,28 and 34, West Elevation Plan, Drawing No. NP McK-2025B, National 

 Park Service, Architectural Division, Regional Offce, 1949 (NPS Alaska Regional Offce Files). ..................................................................29 

Figure 5: Building 27 (Single Residence), view to the southeast, Catalog No. DENA 21478, 1963 (NPS Alaska Regional Offce Files).......................34 

Figure 6: Building 27, view to the northeast, 2014 (NPS Alaska Regional Offce Files).............................................................................................36 

Figure 7: Employees Residence, general plan for buildings 27,27,28 and 34, West Elevation Plan, Drawing No. NP McK-2025B, National 

 Park Service, Architectural Division, Regional Offce, 1949 (NPS Alaska Regional Offce Files). ..................................................................37 

Figure 8: Building 28 (Single Residence), view to the northeast, 2014 (NPS Alaska Regional Offce Files). ...............................................................42 

Figure 9: Building 28, view to the northeast, 2014 (NPS Alaska Regional Offce Files).............................................................................................44 

Figure 10: Employees Residence, general plan for buildings 27,27,28 and 34, West Elevation Plan, Drawing No. NP McK-2025B, 

National Park Service, Architectural Division, Regional Offce, 1949 (NPS Alaska Regional Offce Files). ....................................................45 

Figure 11: Building 34 (Single Residence), view to the northeast, Catalog No. DENA 21442, 1952 (NPS Alaska Regional Offce Files).......................50 

Figure 12: Building 34, view to the north, 2014 (NPS Alaska Regional Offce Files)...................................................................................................52 

Figure 13: Employees Residence, general plan for buildings 27,27,28 and 34, West Elevation Plan, Drawing No. NP McK-2025B, 

National Park Service, Architectural Division, Regional Offce, 1949 (NPS Alaska Regional Offce Files) .....................................................53 

Figure 14: Building 51, 1963, DENA Park Files .........................................................................................................................................................58 

Figure 15: Building 51, 2010, AKRO Files ................................................................................................................................................................60 

Figure 16: Building 51, 1960, As-Constructed Drawings, ETIC .................................................................................................................................61 

Figure 17: Building 54 Interior, 1960 with original boilers which were replaced in 1985 , DENA Park Files................................................................68 

Figure 18: Building 54, North Elevation, 2011, AKRO Files.......................................................................................................................................70 

Figure 19: Building 54, North Elevation, As-Constructed Drawings, 1961, AKRO Files..............................................................................................71 

Figure 20: Building 217, 1957, DENA Park Files .......................................................................................................................................................76 

Figure 21: Building 217, South Elevation, 2014, AKRO Files.....................................................................................................................................78 

Figure 22: Building 217, South Elevation, Building Plans, 1954, AKRO Files. ............................................................................................................79 

Figure 23: Building 12 (Employee Residence – Apartments), view to the southwest, Catalog No. DENA 9101.12.6, 1951

 (Denali National Park and Preserve Museum Collection Archives)............................................................................................................90 

Figure 24: Building 12, view to the southwest, 2014 (NPS Alaska Regional Offce fles)............................................................................................92 

Figure 25: Building 12, East Elevation, 2012 (NPS Alaska Regional Offce fles).........................................................................................................93 

Figure 26: Building 13 (Employee Residence – Apartments), view to the southwest, Catalog No. DENA 21477, 1963 

(Denali National Park and Preserve Museum Collection Archives).............................................................................................................96 

Figure 27: Building 13, view to the southwest, 2014 (NPS Alaska Regional Offce fles)............................................................................................98 

Figure 28: Building 13, East Elevation, 2012 (NPS Alaska Regional Offce fles).........................................................................................................99 

Figure 29: Building 21 (Ranger’s Dormitory), view to the southwest, (Denali National Park and Preserve Museum Collection Archives). ..................102 
HEADQUARTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT: BOUNDARY EXPANSION (1950-1961)

5 

Figure 30: Building 21, view to the southwest, 2014 (NPS Alaska Regional Offce fles)..........................................................................................104 

Figure 31: Building 21, West Elevation, 2012 (NPS Alaska Regional Offce fles ......................................................................................................105 

Figure 32: Building 22 (Offce Building), view to the northeast, Catalog No. DENA 2225, n.d. (Denali National Park 

and Preserve Museum Collection Archives)............................................................................................................................................108 

Figure 33: Building 22, view to the northwest, 2012 (NPS Alaska Regional Offce fles)..........................................................................................110 

Figure 34: Building 22, East Elevation, Historic American Building Survey, W. Vandeventer and Dave Snow, 1986 

(NPS Alaska Regional Offce fles). .........................................................................................................................................................111 

Figure 35: Building 23 (Employee’s Residence), view to the northeast, Catalog No. DENA 21458, 1963 

(Denali National Park and Preserve Museum Collection Archives)...........................................................................................................114 

Figure 36: Building 23, view to the east, 2014 (NPS Alaska Regional Offce fles) ...................................................................................................116 

Figure 37: Building 23, South Elevation, 2012 (NPS Alaska Regional Offce............................................................................................................117 

Figure 38: Building 101 (Warehouse), to the northwest, Catalog No. DENA 21198, 1932 (Denali National Park 

and Preserve Museum Collection Archives)............................................................................................................................................120 

Figure 39 Building 101, to the northeast, 2014 (NPS Alaska Regional Offce Files)..................................................................................................122 

Figure 40: Building 101, South Elevation, Historic American Building Survey, National Park Service, W. Vandeventer 

and Dave Snow, 1986 (NPS Alaska Regional Offce Files). ......................................................................................................................123 

Figure 41: Building 102 (Garage and Repair Shop), view to the southwest, Catalog No. DENA 21158, 1939 

(Denali National Park and Preserve Museum Collection Archives)...........................................................................................................126 

Figure 42: Building 102, view to the southwest, 2014 (NPS Alaska Regional Offce Files).. .....................................................................................128 

Figure 43: Building 102, North Elevation, Historic American Building Survey, National Park Service, W. Vandeventer 

and Dave Snow, 1986 (NPS Alaska Regional Offce Files). ......................................................................................................................129 

Figure 44: Building 103 (Garage), view to the northwest, Catalog No. DENA 21931, 1937 

(Denali National Park and Preserve Museum Collection Archives)...........................................................................................................132 

Figure 45: Building 103, view to the northwest, 2014 (NPS Alaska Regional Offce Files)........................................................................................134 

Figure 46: Building 103, South Elevation, Historic American Building Survey, National Park Service, W. Vandeventer 

and Dave Snow, 1986 (Alaska Regional Offce Files). .............................................................................................................................135 

Figure 47: Building 105 (Dog Feed Cache and Sled Storage), view to the southwest, Catalog No. DENA 4323, n.d. 

(Denali National Park and Preserve Museum Collection Archives)...........................................................................................................138 

Figure 48: Building 105, view to the southwest, 2014 (NPS Alaska Regional Offce Files ........................................................................................140 

Figure 49: Building 105, North Elevation, Historic American Building Survey, National Park Service, W. Vandeventer 

and Dave Snow, 1950 (NPS Alaska Regional Offce Files) .......................................................................................................................141 

Figure 50: View west of the dog kennels during a sled dog demonstration, July 1963. 

(DENA 11-66, Denali National Park and Preserve Museum Collection).. .................................................................................................144 

Figure 51: Building 105A, view to the north, 2011 (NPS Alaska Regional Offce Files). ...........................................................................................146 

Figure 52: Building 105A, hand drawn sketch of current construction of dog houses used by the kennel staff (Denali Kennels Files)......................147 

Figure 53: View southwest of the kennels and the dog feed cache Joseph S. Dixon, Field Naturalist for the NPS, June 2, 1932 

(DENA-69-3-43, Harpers Ferry Center).. ................................................................................................................................................150 
Design Guidelines: Mt McKinley National Park

6 

Figure 54: Building 105B, view to the southwest, 2014 (NPS Alaska Regional Offce Files). ....................................................................................152 

Figure 55: View southeast of the barn (Building 106), prior to 1931 (DENA 3974, Denali National Park and Preserve)............................................156 

Figure 56: Building 106, view to the northeast, 2014 (NPS Alaska Regional Offce Files).........................................................................................158 

Figure 57: Building 106, South Elevation, Historic American Building Survey, National Park Service, W. Vandeventer and Dave Snow, 1986 

(NPS Alaska Regional Offce Files)..........................................................................................................................................................159 

Figure 58: Building 107, view to the north, Catalog No. DENA 21226, 1942 (Denali National Park and Preserve Museum Collection Archives).. ....162 

Figure 59: Building 107, view to the northwest, 2014 (NPS Alaska Regional Offce Files)........................................................................................164 

Figure 60: Building 107, South Elevation, Historic American Building Survey, National Park Service, W. Vandeventer and Dave Snow, 1986 

(NPS Alaska Regional Offce Files)..........................................................................................................................................................165 

Figure 61: View of headquarters with Building 110 in lower left, 1932 (DENA 3-34, Denali National Park and Preserve Museum Collection)..........168 

Figure 62: Building 110, view to the northwest, 2014 (NPS Alaska Regional Offce Files)........................................................................................170 

Figure 63: Building 110, North Elevation, Historic American Building Survey, National Park Service, W. Vandeventer and Dave Snow, 1986 

(NPS Alaska Regional Offce Files)..........................................................................................................................................................171 

Figure 64: Building 111 (Superintendent's Garage), view to the north, Catalog No. DENA 21493, 1939 

(Denali National Park and Preserve Museum Collection Archives)...........................................................................................................174 

Figure 65: Building 111, view to the north, 2014 (NPS Alaska Regional Offce Files)...............................................................................................176 

Figure 66: Building 111, South Elevation, Historic American Building Survey, National Park Service, W. Vandeventer 

and Dave Snow, 1986 (NPS Alaska Regional Offce Files). ......................................................................................................................177 

Figure 67: View northwest of the comfort station (Building 112) during construction in 1932(DENA-69-3-43, Harpers Ferry Center).. ...................180 

Figure 68: Building 112, view to the northwest, 2014 (NPS Alaska Regional Offce Files)........................................................................................182 

Figure 69: Building 112, East Elevation, Historic American Building Survey, National Park Service, W. Vandevener and Dave Snow, 1986 

(NPS Alaska Regional Offce Files)..........................................................................................................................................................183 
HEADQUARTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT: BOUNDARY EXPANSION (1950-1961)

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1 Introduction: 
Design Guidelines: Mt McKinley National Park

8 
HEADQUARTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT: BOUNDARY EXPANSION (1950-1961)

9 

 

 

1.1 Purpose 

The 1985 Design Guidelines: Denali National Park & Preserve 

Headquarters Historic District, authored by David Snow, focused 

on the Original Core of the Mount McKinley National Park 

Headquarters Historic District and should still be the primary 

document for the maintenance and preservation of those 

structures.  Included here are quick reference sheets for each 

of the contributing buildings of the Original Core of the Mount 

McKinley National Park Headquarters Historic District which 

help to call out the Character Defning Features of these buildings. 

These design guidelines are intended to provide a framework for 

determining the appropriate architectural character of new and 

existing buildings and structures within Mount McKinley National 

Park Headquarters Historic District. These design guidelines go 

beyond basic universal principles of good design and focus on the 

“character” qualities that are refected in and contribute to the 

distinctiveness of Denali National Park and Preserve. 

These guidelines build upon and enhance those of the 1985 Design 

Guidelines: Denali National Park & Preserve Headquarters Historic 

District, which were critical for the implementation of several 

projects in the district during the past several years.

1

 These guidelines 

are intended to direct and shape the eforts of architects, planners, 

landscape architects, administrators, maintenance personnel 

and design review staf as they work to create aesthetically and 

environmentallyappropriate structures. If these guidelines are used 

successfully, the built environment will contribute to, rather than 

detract from, the unique sense of place within Mount McKinley 

National Park Headquarters Historic District. 

Close review of design proposals by park and cultural resources 

staf will still be vital in maintaining the Mount McKinley National 

Park Headquarters Historic District but this document should 

serve as a tool for management when consulting with architectural 

and engineering professionals. 

1.2 Legal Context 

The Organic Act of 1916 directed the Secretary of the Interior 

(SOI) and the National Park Service (NPS) to manage parks and 

monuments under their authority in a manner that would: 

“conserve the scenery and the natural and historic 

objects and the wild life therein and to provide for 

the enjoyment of the same in such manner and by 

such means as will leave them unimpaired for the 

enjoyment of future generations.”2 

The Organic Act also grants the SOI the authority to 

implement “rules and regulations as he may deem 

necessary or proper for the use and management 

of the parks, monuments and reservations under 

the jurisdiction of the National Park Service.”3 

In 1917, Congress established Mount McKinley National Park: 

“as a public park for the beneft and enjoyment of 

the people... for recreation purposes by the public 

and for the preservation of animals, birds, and fsh 

and for the preservation of the natural curiosities 

and scenic beauties thereof... said park shall be, 

and is hereby established as a game refuge.”4 

1 David E. Snow, Design Guidelines: Denali National Park & Preserve Headquarters 

District (Anchorage, Alaska: National Park Service, Alaska Regional Office, 1985). 2

 (54 U.S.C. 100507).

3

 (54 U.S.C. 100507).

4

 (39 Statute 938).
Design Guidelines: Mt McKinley National Park

10 

The National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) of 1966, as 

amended through 20145, provides direction for federal agencies 

regarding protection of historic resources under their jurisdiction. 

Section 106 of the act requires consideration of adverse impacts 

to historic resources during the course of any federal undertaking. 

Section 110 provides for an afrmative role of federal agencies in 

identifying, preserving, and utilizing the historic properties that 

are in agency ownership. 

The Alaska National Interest Lands and Conservation Act of 1980 

(ANILCA) added approximately 2,426,000 acres of public land to 

Mt. McKinley National Park and approximately 1,330,000 acres 

of public land as Denali National Preserve and re-designated the 

entirety Denali National Park and Preserve. ANILCA directs the 

NPS to preserve the natural and cultural resources in the park and 

preserve for the beneft, use, education, and inspiration of present 

and future generations. 

The Organic Act prohibits impairment of park resources and values 

unless ofcially specifed under statute. The NPS Management 

Policies (2006) uses the terms “resources and values” in relation 

to the full spectrum of tangible and intangible attributes for which 

the park is established and managed, including those outlined in 

the Organic Act and the park’s enabling legislation. The primary 

responsibility of the NPS is to ensure that park resources and values 

will continue to exist in a condition that will allow the American 

people to have present and future opportunities to enjoy them. 

1.3 Agency Policy and Standards 

Familiarity with and understanding of NPS policies and standards 

will assist designers in implementing the guidelines. Many of 

those policies articulate how the built environment should protect 

natural and cultural resources and enhance visitor enjoyment of 

those resources. The NPS Management Policies (2006) provide 

direction under the “Park Facilities” heading, which echoes the 

purposes and intent of the design guidelines. 

[F]acilities will be integrated into the park

landscape and environs with sustainable designs

and systems to minimize environmental impact.

Development will not compete with or dominate

park features or interfere with natural processes.... If 

a cohesive design theme is desired, recommended, 

or required, the theme will refect the purpose 

and character of the park, or in a large park... an 

individual developed area.6 

Designs for park facilities, regardless of their 

origin (NPS, contractor, concessioner, or other), 

will... be harmonious with and integrated into 

the park environment. They will also be subject 

throughout all phases of design and construction 

to the same code compliance; the same high 

standards of sustainable design, universal design, 

and functionality.7 

The “Facilities and Park Design” section of NPS Director’s 

Order 28 (NPS-28: Cultural Resource Management Guideline) 

emphasizes the following management policies: 

Well-executed design sensitive to the cultural and 

natural environment is essential to protect cultural 

5

(54 USC306108 & 306101[a]).

6

National Park Service, Management Policies (Washington D.C.: National Park 

Service, 2006), 9.I.I.2.

7

National Park Service, Management Policies, 9.I.I. 
HEADQUARTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT: BOUNDARY EXPANSION (1950-1961)

11 

resources and their settings and to develop and 

maintain a harmonious overall park scene that 

meets contemporary needs. The goal of park design 

is to provide for new facilities or new or changing 

uses of historic properties while maintaining 

harmony and continuity with those special visual 

and cultural features that create a sense of time and 

place unique to each park. 

Elements to be considered in the park design 

process, particularly when development takes 

place in or near cultural zones, include scale, 

texture, continuity of architectural style or 

tradition, physical and visual relationships, and 

consistency with the Secretary of the Interior’s 

Standards for Treatment of Historic Properties and 

other management standards in this guideline.8 

The most important statutory directive for the NPS is provided by 

interrelated provisions of the Organic Act. The key managementrelated provision of the Organic Act states: 

[The National Park Service] shall promote and 

regulate the use of the Federal areas known as 

national parks, monuments, and reservations 

hereinafter specifed by such means and measures 

as conform to the fundamental purpose of the said 

parks, monuments, and reservations, which purpose 

is to conserve the scenery and the natural and historic 

objects and the wild life therein and to provide for 

the enjoyment of the same in such manner and by 

8

National Park Service, Director’s Order 28, Chapter 4: Stewardship, B1 (Washington 

D.C.: National Park Service, 1998), pp 43.

such means as will leave them unimpaired for the 

enjoyment of future generations.9 

Accordingly, the Management Policies states “the impairment 

of park resources and values may not be allowed by the Service 

unless directly and specifcally provided for by legislation or by 

the proclamation establishing the park.” It is important for the 

planner or architect to produce designs that will not harm the 

integrity of park resources or values, including opportunities for 

the enjoyment of those resources or values. 

All construction must be accomplished in accordance with 

applicable codes and accepted standards. This is a federal area 

and designers need to consult with the Planning, Design, and 

Maintenance Team of the Alaska Regional Ofce about prevailing 

codes that apply within the park. 

9

National Park Service Organic Act (Washington D.C.: U.S. Congress, 1916).
Design Guidelines: Mt McKinley National Park

12 
HEADQUARTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT: BOUNDARY EXPANSION (1950-1961)

13 

2 DESIGN REVIEW PROCESS 
Design Guidelines: Mt McKinley National Park

14 
HEADQUARTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT: BOUNDARY EXPANSION (1950-1961)

15 

 

2.1 Project Idea/Proposal Phase: 

• Park staf (i.e. Facilities Project Leader) identifes a

project need. Discussion of a proposed project (i.e. IDT

meeting or other regular meetings with maintenance staf,

etc.) includes the Park’s Section 106 Coordinator.

• The Park Section 106 Coordinator will determine if a

project requires Section 106 Review:

o If it is an “Undertaking” - (such as

buildingmaintenance, installing a light fixture, or 

approving a research permit) 

o Whether or not the project activity has the 

potential to affect historic properties. 

• The Project Leader maintains an on-going dialog with the

Park 106 Coordinator, to determine compliance needs,

and to provide updated information along with a draft

timeline. The Project Leader creates a PMIS statement,

and may enter the project into PEPC.1 

• The Section 106 Coordinator identifes the Cultural

Resources Team members to review as appropriate the

• project and the consulting parties – including Tribes,

communities, local governments, SHPO, etc.

1 Note: The Section 106 review is a separate process from NEPA. Even if a project 

is determined to be a Categorical Exclusion, it does not mean that the Section 

106 process is done. These are separate process of consideration and the 

Park Section 106 Coordinator needs to be informed of Cat Ex projects, and be 

provided with basic project information to determine whether or not they are 

Section 106 undertakings.

2.2 Project is Formulated/Funding Approved Phase: 

• Section 106 Coordinator proceeds with the Section 106

process and documentation in PEPC by:

o Applying the Nationwide Programmatic Agreement 

(P.A.) streamlined process (i.e. must already have

SHPO concurred DOEs/NR nominations) OR

o Following the regular 4-step process to:

1. Gather information

2. Identify and evaluate for National Register

eligibility

3. Assess for potential adverse efects

4. Reduce harm/Mitigate

o Determining a strategy to complete consultation

(includes SHPO and tribes)

o Coordinating CRM specialist 106 reviews

o Entering/updating 106 information in PEPC,

including preparing Assessment of Efect form,

as needed, and Superintendent signing the

form.

2.3 Good Practices 

• Engaging in on-going dialogues, by communicating early

and sharing project changes and 106 updates, so that both

project leaders, NEPA Coordinators, and Section 106

Coordinators can meet a park’s timeframe.

• Understanding that the Section 106 review is not a drawn

out process nor a mandated outcome. NPS has a legal

obligation to consider actions on historic properties, to

prevent harm as much as possible as well as to document in 

PEPC, to be accountable and for reporting requirements.
Design Guidelines: Mt McKinley National Park

16 

 

• Applying the nationwide P.A. with streamlined

opportunities as much as possible. Conducting

consultation in an appropriate and timely manner.

• Applying strategic planning for conducting NHPA Section

110 inventories (i.e. for high visitor use areas or areas

subject to development) and through the CRPP funding

process.

• Participating in project review meetings with the Alaska

SHPO at least every two years, as required by the P.A.

Parks report that by consulting early, having annual review

meetings and inviting the SHPO to visit their parks to gain a 

better understanding of the historic properties and issues,

continues to be benefcial in implementing and even in

expediting some Section 106 reviews.

• Recognizing that the Section 106 process must be

completed before a project can be implemented or a NEPA 

document (EA or EIS) can be signed. If there is a Section

106 adverse efect, then an agreement document needs

to be in place and signed. As stipulations, some activities

may take place after the documents are signed, such as

monitoring ground disturbance during construction.
HEADQUARTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT: BOUNDARY EXPANSION (1950-1961)

17 
Design Guidelines: Mt McKinley National Park

18 
HEADQUARTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT: BOUNDARY EXPANSION (1950-1961)

19 

3 MAP OF HISTORIC DISTRICT 
Design Guidelines: Mt McKinley National Park

20 
Headquarters Historic District: Boundary Expansion (1950-1961)

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Figure 1. Historic District Map 

21 
Design Guidelines: Mt McKinley National Park

 - 

 

 

 

 

 

 

- 

 

3.1 HISTORIC DISTRICT CONTRIBUTING RESOURCES 

Original Core Historic District (1926 1941) 

Building Number Date of Construction Function 

#12 1938 Employee Residence - Apartments 

#13 1938 Employee Residence - Apartments 

#21 1934 Rangers’ Dormitory 

#22 1926 Office Building 

#23 1940 Employee’s Residence 

#101 1928 Warehouse 

#103 1931 Garage 

#102 1939 Garage and Repair Shop (Machine Shop and Garage) 

#105 1929 Dog Feed Cache and Sled Storage 

#105A 1969 Dog Houses 

#105B 1969 Dog Kennels 

#106 1928 Barn 

#107 1932 Boiler House 

#110 1930 Electric Light Plant 

#111 1939 Superintendent’s Garage 

#111A 1939 Retaining Wall 

#112 1931 Comfort Station 

Boundary Expansion (1950 1961) 

Building Number Date of Construction Function 

#26 1950 Single Residence 

#27 1950 Single Residence 

#28 1952 Single Residence 

#34 1952 Single Residence 

#51 1958 Six-Plex Apartments 

#54 1961 Boiler House 

#217 

(Previously #124) 

1957 Three-Stall Garage 

N/A c.1960 Boiler House Spur Road 

N/A 1953 Residential Loop Road 

22 
HEADQUARTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT: BOUNDARY EXPANSION (1950-1961)

- 

 

 

- 

 

3.2 HISTORIC DISTRICT NON-CONTRIBUTING RESOURCES 

Original Core Historic District (1926 1941) 

Building 

Number 

Date of 

Construction 

Function Reason for Non-Contributing Status 

#96 c. 1955 (platform);

1979 (walls and roof)

Storage Shed Constructed outside period of significance 

#118 1955 Equipment Storage Altered 

#123 c. 1938 CCC Infirmary Altered and moved from original location. 

#564 2005 Comfort Station Constructed outside period of significance 

Boundary Expansion (1950 1961) 

Building 

Number 

Date of 

Construction 

Function 

#53 1958 Six-Stall Garage Altered 

#99 c.1978 Backcountry 

Operations 

Constructed outside period of significance 

#169 1983 Panabode/Ranger 

Operations 

Constructed outside period of significance 

#170 1983 Panabode House Constructed outside period of significance 

#171 1985 Single Residence Constructed outside period of significance 

#251 1994 Residence Constructed outside period of significance 

#252AB 1995 Duplex Residence Constructed outside period of significance 

23 
Design Guidelines: Mt McKinley National Park

24 
HEADQUARTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT: BOUNDARY EXPANSION (1950-1961)

25 

 

BUILDING 26: 

SINGLE RESIDENCE 

1950 
Design Guidelines: Mt McKinley National Park

26 

Figure 2. Building 26 (Single Residence), view to the southwest, Catalog No. DENA 2223, 1963 (Denali National Park and Preserve Archives) 
HEADQUARTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT: BOUNDARY EXPANSION (1950-1961)

27 

GENERAL DESCRIPTION 

B

uilding 26 is one of four houses in the district designed in 1949 by 

Cecil Doty, a National Park Service Architect who, within 

10 years, would oversee the design of Mission 66 architecture. In 

2014, Building 26 was substantially rehabilitated in an efort to return 

the building to its original appearance, using Doty’s 1949 plans as a 

guide. It is a single story, wood-framed, side-gabled, low-pitched, 

west-facing, NPS Modern ranch style residence. 

While the garage was originally a shed-roofed single-car garage/ 

woodshed, the gable of the main house now extends and 

incorporates the garage. The building is generally rectangular 

shaped, with recessed front and rear entries and stepped bays across the 

façade. The front porch is comprised of a concrete deck and two 

shallow steps, and a single, squared wood post. It has a concrete 

block foundation, stained redwood and cedar siding, and a 5V 

crimp metal roof. On the central bays, the siding runs vertical, 

while the siding is horizontal on the end bays. Fenestration is 

regular with 1/1 wood sash windows: single, paired, and tripled. 

The basement contains vinyl single-pane awning windows. A 

concrete chimney pierces the on the east side of the gable. The 

building retains high historic integrity in location, setting, design, 

materials, workmanship, feeling, and association. 

General Recommendations: 

• Develop and adhere to a cyclic maintenance plan,

including:

o Annual inspections of the foundation, siding,

windows, doors, finishing, and roof material.

o Cleaning and repainting on a 7-year basis.

• Retain character-defning features.

• Conduct repairs in-kind.

• Avoid exterior alterations.

• Coordinate proposed projects with Park cultural

resource manager and SHPO on a case-by-case basis to

confrm projects are completed in accordance with the

Secretary of Interior Standards for the Treatment of

Historic Properties.

CHARACTER-DEFINING FEATURES 

Building Exterior 

• Generally rectangular massing with stepped bays

• NPS Modern, ranch style

• Stained vertical and horizontal redwood and cedar plank

siding

• Low-pitched gable roof

• Recessed front porch with poured concrete deck

and shallow steps

• Recessed rear entry

• Single, paired, and tripled 1/1 wood sash windows

• Attached single car garage/woodshed

• 5V Crimp metal roof
Design Guidelines: Mt McKinley National Park

28 

Figure 3. Building 26, view to the northeast, after rehabilitation, 2014 (NPS Alaska Regional Offce Files) 
HEADQUARTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT: BOUNDARY EXPANSION (1950-1961)

29 

Single, paired, and tripled Low-pitched gable roof Recessed front porch with 1/1 wood sash windows 5V crimp metal roof poured concrete deck and shallow steps 

Stained vertical and horizontal 

redwood and cedar plank siding 

Attached single car gararge/woodshed 

Figure 4. Employees Residence, general plan for buildings 27,27,28 and 34, West Elevation Plan, Drawing No. NP McK-2025B, National Park Service, Architectural Division, 

Regional Offce, 1949 (NPS Alaska Regional Offce Files) 
Design Guidelines: Mt McKinley National Park

30 

Design and Maintenance Guidelines 

FOUNDATION 

The foundation is constructed of Concrete Masonry Units 

(CMU) walls with a poured concrete basement foor. 

Foundation Maintenance 

•	 Consult with a licensed structural engineer to evaluate 

and implement stabilization recommendations. 

•	 Repairs should be in-kind and match the original in 

material, size, shape, design, scale, color and craftsmanship. 

Foundation Replacement 

•	 If a portion of a foundation is deteriorated beyond repair, 

replace in-kind only the damaged portion using materials 

that match the original in material, size, shape, design, 

scale, color and craftsmanship. 

WINDOWS 

With the rehabilitation efort, the windows were replaced with 

windows that are similar to the style of the original windows. 

The front elevation features a string of three, single one/one 

double-hung wood windows which create a picture window 

efect. This large picture window is ofset by a single one/one 

double-hung window on the left along with a single double-hung 

in the recessed porch area. 

The garage features a single one/one double-hung window in the 

center of the elevation on the lower portion of the wall, which is 

the last original window on the structure. 

Window Maintenance 

•	 Establish a cyclic maintenance plan to ensure proper 

operation of windows. The cyclic plan should include 

annual inspections and cleaning using the gentlest means 

as possible on a 7-year basis. 

Window Replacement 

•	 All other options should be exhausted before replacement 

windows are explored. Options include interior storm 

windows. 

•	 Replacement windows should match the original as 

closely as possible, replicating operation. 

DOORS 

Five panel solid wood doors on the front elevation, which have 

all been replaced. 

Door Maintenance 

•	 Clean and sand the front doors by hand, removing scuf 

marks and water stains without damaging the wood 

veneer. 

•	 Do not power wash or sandblast. 

•	 Apply approved, in-kind stain. 

•	 Apply approved, in-kind varnish. 

•	 If a feature of a door is severely deteriorated beyond 

repair, it is appropriate to replace only the damaged 

portion or feature. Replace the portion or feature 

with materials similar to the original in material, size, 

shape, design, scale, color and craftsmanship. Use only 

compatible substitute materials if the original material is 

not available. 
HEADQUARTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT: BOUNDARY EXPANSION (1950-1961)

31 

Door Replacement 

•	 If an entire door is beyond repair or missing, replace 

with materials that match the original in size, shape, 

design, scale, color, and craftsmanship. 

•	 Ensure the replacement door duplicates the original 

size and profle, confguration, architectural trim and 

other details of the historic door. 

•	 Use only compatible substitute materials if the 

original material in not available. 

COLOR 

Originally the wood siding was stained and has been returned to 

this fnish during the rehabilitation using Superdeck Redwood.

 Color Maintenance 

•	 Establish a cyclic maintenance plan to ensure proper cycle 

for re-staining. The cyclic plan should include annual 

inspections and re-staining. Regular inspection and minor 

repairs to prevent moisture damage help prolong the fnish. 

SIDING 

The original redwood siding was refnished and is exposed on 

the garage while the rest of the building is clad in cedar siding 

which is close in profle to the original specifcations. 

Siding Maintenance 

•	 Protect, maintain and repair materials, details and 

features of exterior walls through appropriate 

preservation methods. 

Siding Replacement 

•	 If a portion of the siding is deteriorated beyond repair, 

replace in-kind only the damaged portion using materials 

that match the original in material, size, shape, design, 

scale, color and craftsmanship. 

•	 It is inappropriate to cover any historic exterior wall with 

modern substitute materials such as vinyl siding or hardiplank. 

ROOFING 

The shallow side gable roof is covered in 5V Crimp metal roofng 

which was installed in 2013. A concrete chimney pierces the rear 

portion of the gable and features a small cricket. 

Roof Maintenance 

•	 Protect and maintain the roofng materials and 

forms through regular maintenance using appropriate 

preservation methods, including removal of debris from 

roofs and cleaning and maintenance of gutter systems. 

It is important to maintain a weather tight roof for the 

long-term preservation of a historic building. 

Roof Replacement 

•	 Replace in-kind. 

•	 If full replacement of a deteriorated historic roof or 

feature is necessary, replace in-kind by matching the 

original in material, size, shape, design, scale, color and 

craftsmanship. Use only compatible substitute materials if 

the original material is not available. 

•	 It is inappropriate to remove historic roof features to ease 

the maintenance or installation of a new roof. Historic 

roof features should be preserved and maintained. 
Design Guidelines: Mt McKinley National Park

32 
HEADQUARTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT: BOUNDARY EXPANSION (1950-1961)

33 

BUILDING 27: 

SINGLE RESIDENCE

 1950 
Design Guidelines: Mt McKinley National Park

34 

Figure 5. Building 27 (Single Residence), view to the southeast, Catalog No. DENA 21478, 1963 (NPS Alaska Regional Offce Files 
HEADQUARTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT: BOUNDARY EXPANSION (1950-1961)

35 

GENERAL DESCRIPTION 

Building 27 is one of four houses in the district designed in 1949 by Cecil Doty, a National Park Service Architect who, within 

10 years, would oversee the design of Mission 66 architecture. It is 

a single story, wood-framed, side-gabled, low-pitched, west-facing, 

NPS Modern ranch style residence. While the garage was originally a 

shed-roofed single-car garage/woodshed, the gable of the main house 

now extends and incorporates the garage. The building is generally 

rectangular shaped, with recessed front and rear entries and stepped 

bays across the façade. The front porch is comprised of a concrete 

deck and two shallow steps, and a single, squared wood post. It has 

a concrete block foundation, clapboard siding, and a 5V crimp metal 

roof. Fenestration is regular with rectangular, single-pane, windows: 

single, paired, and tripled. The basement contains vinyl single-pane 

awning windows. A concrete chimney pierces the rear half of the 

roof. The building retains high historic integrity in location, setting, 

design, materials, workmanship, feeling, and association. 

General Recommendations: 

•	 Develop and adhere to a cyclic maintenance plan, 

including: 

o Annual inspections of the foundation, siding, 

windows, doors, fnishing, and roof material. 

o Cleaning and repainting on a 7-year basis. 

•	 Retain character-defning features. 

•	 Conduct repairs in-kind. 

•	 Avoid exterior alterations. 

•	 Coordinate proposed projects with Park cultural resource 

manager and SHPO on a case-by-case basis to confrm 

projects are completed in accordance with the Secretary of 

Interior Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties. 

CHARACTER-DEFINING FEATURES 

•	 Generally rectangular massing with stepped bays 

•	 NPS Modern, ranch style 

•	 Stained vertical and horizontal redwood and cedar plank 

siding* 

•	 Low-pitched roof 

•	 Recessed front porch with poured concrete deck and 

shallow steps 

•	 Recessed rear entry 

•	 Single, paired, and tripled 1/1 wood sash windows* 

•	 Attached single car garage/woodshed 

•	 5V crimp metal roof 

* At the time this report was completed, in June 2015, these original characterdefning features were missing. It is recommended that they are reinstalled and 

maintained, as discussed in the following pages. 
Design Guidelines: Mt McKinley National Park

Figure 6. Building 27, view to the northeast, 2014 (NPS Alaska Regional Offce Files) 

36 
HEADQUARTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT: BOUNDARY EXPANSION (1950-1961)

37 

Single, paired, and tripled Low-pitched gable roof Recessed front porch with 1/1 wood sash windows 5V crimp metal roof poured concrete deck and shallow steps 

Stained vertical and horizontal 

redwood and cedar plank siding 

Attached single car gararge/woodshed 

Figure 7. Employees Residence, general plan for buildings 27,27,28 and 34, West Elevation Plan, Drawing No. NP McK-2025B, National Park Service, Architectural Division, 

Regional Offce, 1949 (NPS Alaska Regional Offce Files) 
Design Guidelines: Mt McKinley National Park

38 

Design and Maintenance Guidelines 

FOUNDATION 

The foundation is constructed of CMU walls with a poured 

concrete basement foor. 

Foundation Maintenance 

• Consult with a licensed structural engineer to evaluate

and implement stabilization recommendations.

• Repairs should be in-kind and match the original in

material, size, shape, design, scale, color and craftsmanship.

Foundation Replacement 

• If a portion of a foundation is deteriorated beyond repair,

replace in-kind only the damaged portion using materials

that match the original in material, size, shape, design,

scale, color and craftsmanship.

WINDOWS 

Most of the original windows have been replaced in this 

structure. The original windows of the front elevation featured 

a string of three, single one/one double-hung wood windows 

which create a picture window efect; a single one/one doublehung window on the left along with a single double-hung in the 

recessed porch area. 

The garage features a single one/one double-hung window in the 

center of the elevation on the lower portion of the wall, which is 

the last original window on the structure. 

Window Maintenance 

• Establish a cyclic maintenance plan to ensure proper

operation of windows. The cyclic plan should include

annual inspections and cleaning using the gentlest means

as possible on a 7-year basis.

Window Replacement 

• Replacement windows should match the original as

closely as possible, replicating operation.

DOORS 

Honey colored veneer wood doors on the front elevation, which 

have all been replaced. 

Door Maintenance 

• Clean and sand the front doors by hand, removing scuf

marks and water stains without damaging the wood veneer.

• Do not power wash or sandblast.

• Apply approved, in-kind stain.

• Apply approved, in-kind varnish.

• If a feature of a door is severely deteriorated beyond repair,

it is appropriate to replace only the damaged portion or

feature. Replace the portion or feature with materials

similar to the original in material, size, shape, design, scale,

color and craftsmanship. Use only compatible substitute

materials if the original material is not available.

Door Replacement 

• If an entire door is beyond repair or missing, replace with

materials that match the original in size, shape, design,

scale, color, and craftsmanship.

• Ensure the replacement door duplicates the original size

and profle, confguration, architectural trim and other

details of the historic door.

• Use only compatible substitute materials if the original

material in not available.

COLOR 

Originally the wood siding was stained and has been returned to 

this fnish during the rehabilitation. When the building is re-sided 

with wood use Superdeck Redwood to match Building 26. 
HEADQUARTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT: BOUNDARY EXPANSION (1950-1961)

39

 Color Maintenance 

•	 Establish a cyclic maintenance plan to ensure proper 

cycle for re-staining. The cyclic plan should include 

annual inspections and re-staining. Regular inspection 

and minor repairs to prevent moisture damage help 

prolong the fnish. 

SIDING 

Currently Building 27 is clad in aluminum lap siding and the 

garage is clad in the original horizontal redwood v-notch tongue 

and groove siding. The original redwood siding is located under 

the aluminum siding currently and is intact. 

Siding Maintenance 

•	 Protect, maintain and repair materials, details and 

features of exterior walls through appropriate 

preservation methods. 

Siding Replacement 

•	 Remove aluminum siding, insulation, wood furring. 

•	 Insulate exterior wall cavity with rigid insulation; 

Expanded Polystyrene (blue board) = R5/1’’ @ 31⁄2’’ = 

R Value of 17.5 Expanded Polystyrene, Refrigerant 31 = 

R6.25/1’’ @ 31⁄2’’= R 21.87 

•	 Polyisocyanurate Rigid Insulation = R7.04/1’’ @ 31⁄2’’ = R 

24.64 Note: The existing R value can be matched within 

the cavity of the existing exterior wall through the use 

of rigid insulation. The existing wall, if insulated with 

fberglass insulation (R 3.25/1’’) and the 11⁄2’’ expanded 

polystyrene (R 4/1’’) has an R Value of 17.37 

•	 Remove paint from garage/woodshed painted redwood 

siding. 

•	 Install cedar siding where aluminum siding is removed, 

will match the existing material as closely as possibly by 

sending a sample of the profle to the mill. 

•	 The siding should be replaced using materials that 

match the original in material, size, shape, design, scale, 

color and craftsmanship. Similar to those used in the 

rehabilitation of Building 26. 

•	 It is inappropriate to cover any historic exterior wall with 

modern substitute materials such as vinyl siding or hardiplank. 

ROOFING 

The shallow side gable roof is covered in 5V Crimp metal roofng 

which was installed in 2013. A concrete chimney pierces the rear 

portion of the gable and features a small cricket. 

Roof Maintenance 

•	 Protect and maintain the roofng materials and forms 

through regular maintenance using appropriate 

preservation methods, including removal of debris from 

roofs and cleaning and maintenance of gutter systems. 

It is important to maintain a weather tight roof for the 

long-term preservation of a historic building. 

Roof Replacement 

•	 Replace in-kind. 

•	 If full replacement of a deteriorated historic roof or 

feature is necessary, replace in-kind by matching the 

original in material, size, shape, design, scale, color and 

craftsmanship. Use only compatible substitute materials if 

the original material is not available. 

•	 It is inappropriate to remove historic roof features to ease 

the maintenance or installation of a new roof. Historic 

roof features should be preserved and maintained. 
Design Guidelines: Mt McKinley National Park

40 
HEADQUARTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT: BOUNDARY EXPANSION (1950-1961)

41 

 

BUILDING 28:

 SINGLE RESIDENCE

 1952 
Design Guidelines: Mt McKinley National Park

42 

Figure 8. Building 28 (Single Residence), view to the northeast, 2014 (NPS Alaska Regional Offce Files) 
HEADQUARTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT: BOUNDARY EXPANSION (1950-1961)

43 

GENERAL DESCRIPTION 

Building 28 is one of four houses in the district designed in 1949 by Cecil Doty, a National Park Service Architect who, within 

10 years, would oversee the design of Mission 66 architecture. It 

is a single story, wood-framed, side-gabled, low-pitched, westfacing, NPS Modern ranch style residence. While the garage was 

originally a shed-roofed single-car garage/woodshed, the gable 

of the main house now extends and incorporates the garage. The 

building is generally rectangular shaped, with recessed front and 

rear entries and stepped bays across the façade. The front porch is 

comprised of a concrete deck and two shallow steps, and a single, 

squared wood post. It has a concrete block foundation, clapboard 

siding, and a 5V crimp metal roof. Fenestration is regular with 

rectangular, single-pane, windows: single, paired, and tripled. 

The basement contains vinyl single-pane awning windows. A 

concrete chimney pierces the rear half of the roof. The building 

retains high historic integrity in location, setting, design, materials, 

workmanship, feeling, and association. 

General Recommendations: 

•	 Develop and adhere to a cyclic maintenance plan, 

including: 

o Annual inspections of the foundation, siding, 

windows, doors, fnishing, and roof material. 

o Cleaning and repainting on a 7-year basis. 

•	 Retain character-defning features. 

•	 Conduct repairs in-kind. 

•	 Avoid exterior alterations. 

•	 Coordinate proposed projects with Park cultural resource 

manager and SHPO on a case-by-case basis to confrm 

projects are completed in accordance with the Secretary of 

Interior Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties. 

CHARACTER-DEFINING FEATURES 

•	 Generally rectangular massing with stepped bays 

•	 NPS Modern, ranch style 

•	 Stained vertical and horizontal redwood and cedar plank 

siding* 

•	 Low-pitched roof 

•	 Recessed front porch with poured concrete deck and 

shallow steps* 

•	 Recessed rear entry 

•	 Single, paired, and tripled 1/1 wood sash windows* 

•	 Attached single car garage/woodshed 

•	 5V Crimp metal roof 

* At the time this report was completed, in June 2015, these original character-defning 

features were missing. It is recommended that they are reinstalled and maintained, as 

discussed in the following pages. 
Design Guidelines: Mt McKinley National Park

44 

Figure 9. Building 28, view to the northeast, 2014 (NPS Alaska Regional Offce Files) 
HEADQUARTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT: BOUNDARY EXPANSION (1950-1961)

45 

Single, paired, and tripled Low-pitched gable roof Recessed front porch with 1/1 wood sash windows 5V crimp metal roof poured concrete deck and shallow steps 

Stained vertical and horizontal 

redwood and cedar plank siding 

Attached single car gararge/woodshed 

Figure 10. Employees Residence, general plan for buildings 27,27,28 and 34, West Elevation Plan, Drawing No. NP McK-2025B, National Park Service, Architectural Division, 

Regional Offce, 1949 (NPS Alaska Regional Offce Files) 
Design Guidelines: Mt McKinley National Park

46 

Design and Maintenance Guidelines 

FOUNDATION 

The foundation is constructed of CMU walls with a poured 

concrete basement foor. 

Foundation Maintenance 

•	 Consult with a licensed structural engineer to evaluate and 

implement stabilization recommendations. 

•	 Repairs should be in-kind and match the original in 

material, size, shape, design, scale, color and craftsmanship. 

Foundation Replacement 

•	 If a portion of a foundation is deteriorated beyond repair, 

replace in-kind only the damaged portion using materials 

that match the original in material, size, shape, design, 

scale, color and craftsmanship. 

WINDOWS 

Most of the original windows have been replaced in this 

structure. The original windows of the front elevation featured 

a string of three, single one/one double-hung wood windows 

which create a picture window efect; a single one/one doublehung window on the left along with a single double-hung in 

the recessed porch area. The garage features a single one/one 

double-hung window in the center of the elevation on the lower 

portion of the wall, which is the last original window on the 

structure. 

Window Maintenance 

•	 Establish a cyclic maintenance plan to ensure proper 

operation of windows. The cyclic plan should include 

annual inspections and cleaning using the gentlest means 

as possible on a 7-year basis. 

Window Replacement 

•	 Replacement windows should match the original as 

closely as possible, replicating operation. 

DOORS 

Honey colored veneer wood doors on the front elevation, which 

have all been replaced. 

Door Maintenance 

•	 Clean and sand the front doors by hand, removing scuf 

marks and water stains without damaging the wood veneer. 

•	 Do not power wash or sandblast. 

•	 Apply approved, in-kind stain. 

•	 Apply approved, in-kind varnish. 

•	 If a feature of a door is severely deteriorated beyond repair, 

it is appropriate to replace only the damaged portion or 

feature. Replace the portion or feature with materials 

similar to the original in material, size, shape, design, scale, 

color and craftsmanship. Use only compatible substitute 

materials if the original material is not available. 

Door Replacement 

•	 If an entire door is beyond repair or missing, replace 

with materials that match the original in size, shape, 

design, scale, color, and craftsmanship. 

•	 Ensure the replacement door duplicates the original 

size and profle, confguration, architectural trim and 

other details of the historic door. 

•	 Use only compatible substitute materials if the 

original material in not available. 

COLOR 

Original wood siding was stained and has been returned to this 

fnish during the rehabilitation. When the building is re-sided 

with wood use Superdeck Redwood to match Building 26.

 Color Maintenance 

•	 Establish a cyclic maintenance plan to ensure proper 

cycle for re-staining. The cyclic plan should include 
HEADQUARTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT: BOUNDARY EXPANSION (1950-1961)

47 

 

annual inspections and re-staining. Regular inspection 

and minor repairs to prevent moisture damage help 

prolong the fnish. 

SIDING 

Currently Building 28 is clad in aluminum lap siding and the 

garage is clad in the original horizontal redwood v-notch tongue 

and groove siding. The original redwood siding is located under 

the aluminum siding currently and is intact. 

Siding Maintenance 

•	 Protect, maintain and repair materials, details and 

features of exterior walls through appropriate 

preservation methods. 

Siding Replacement 

•	 Remove aluminum siding, insulation, wood furring. 

•	 Insulate exterior wall cavity with rigid insulation; 

Expanded Polystyrene (blue board) = R5/1’’ @ 31⁄2’’ = 

R Value of 17.5 Expanded Polystyrene, Refrigerant 31 = 

R6.25/1’’ @ 31⁄2’’= R 21.87 

•	 Polyisocyanurate Rigid Insulation = R7.04/1’’ @ 31⁄2’’ = R 

24.64 Note: The existing R value can be matched within 

the cavity of the existing exterior wall through the use 

of rigid insulation. The existing wall, if insulated with 

fberglass insulation (R 3.25/1’’) and the 11⁄2’’ expanded 

polystyrene (R 4/1’’) has an R Value of 17.37 

•	 Remove paint from garage/woodshed painted redwood 

siding. 

•	 Install cedar siding where aluminum siding is removed, 

will match the existing material as closely as possibly by 

sending a sample of the profle to the mill. 

•	 The siding should be replaced using materials that 

match the original in material, size, shape, design, scale, 

color and craftsmanship. Similar to those used in the 

rehabilitation of Building 26. 

•	 It is inappropriate to cover any historic exterior wall with 

modern substitute materials such as vinyl siding or hardiplank. 

ROOFING 

The shallow side gable roof is covered in 5V Crimp metal roofng 

which was installed in 2013. A concrete chimney pierces the rear 

portion of the gable and features a small cricket. 

Roof Maintenance 

•	 Protect and maintain the roofng materials and forms 

through regular maintenance using appropriate 

preservation methods, including removal of debris from 

roofs and cleaning and maintenance of gutter systems. 

It is important to maintain a weather tight roof for the 

long-term preservation of a historic building. 

Roof Replacement 

•	 Replace in-kind. 

•	 If full replacement of a deteriorated historic roof or 

feature is necessary, replace in-kind by matching the 

original in material, size, shape, design, scale, color and 

craftsmanship. Use only compatible substitute materials if 

the original material is not available. 

•	 It is inappropriate to remove historic roof features to ease 

the maintenance or installation of a new roof. Historic 

roof features should be preserved and maintained. 

PORCH 

Due to structural deterioration of the front porch, a new wood 

deck with wood railing has been installed. This impacts the 

building’s integrity. When the wood deck fails the poured 

concrete porch should be restored. 
Design Guidelines: Mt McKinley National Park

48 
HEADQUARTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT: BOUNDARY EXPANSION (1950-1961)

49 

 

BUILDING 34:

 SINGLE RESIDENCE 

1952 
Design Guidelines: Mt McKinley National Park

50 

Figure 11. Building 34 (Single Residence), view to the northeast, Catalog No. DENA 21442, 1952 (NPS Alaska Regional Offce Files) 
HEADQUARTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT: BOUNDARY EXPANSION (1950-1961)

51 

GENERAL DESCRIPTION 

Building 34 is one of four houses in the district designed in 1949 by Cecil Doty, a National Park Service Architect who, within 

10 years, would oversee the design of Mission 66 architecture. It 

is a single story, wood-framed, side-gabled, low-pitched, westfacing, NPS Modern ranch style residence. While the garage was 

originally a shed-roofed single-car garage/woodshed, the gable 

of the main house now extends and incorporates the garage. The 

building is generally rectangular shaped, with recessed front and 

rear entries and stepped bays across the façade. The front porch 

is comprised of a concrete deck and two shallow steps, and a 

single, squared wood post. It has a concrete block foundation, 

metal siding, and a 5V crimp metal roof. Fenestration is regular 

with rectangular, single-pane, windows: single, paired, and tripled 

with a single rectangular six-pane window on the east elevation. 

The basement contains vinyl single-pane awning windows. A 

concrete chimney pierces the rear half of the roof. The building 

retains high historic integrity in location, setting, design, materials, 

workmanship, feeling, and association. 

General Recommendations: 

•	 Develop and adhere to a cyclic maintenance plan, 

including: 

o Annual inspections of the foundation, siding, 

windows, doors, fnishing, and roof material. 

o Cleaning and repainting on a 7-year basis. 

•	 Retain character-defning features. 

•	 Conduct repairs in-kind. 

•	 Avoid exterior alterations. 

•	 Retain existing concrete deck 

•	 Coordinate proposed projects with Park cultural resource 

manager and SHPO on a case-by-case basis to confrm 

projects are completed in accordance with the Secretary 

of Interior Standards for the Treatment of Historic 

Properties. 

CHARACTER-DEFINING FEATURES 

•	 Generally rectangular massing with stepped bays 

•	 NPS Modern, ranch style 

•	 Stained vertical and horizontal redwood and cedar plank 

siding* 

•	 Low-pitched roof 

•	 Recessed front porch with poured concrete deck and 

shallow steps 

•	 Recessed rear entry 

•	 Single, paired, and tripled 1/1 wood sash windows* 

•	 Attached single car garage/woodshed 

•	 5V Crimp metal roof 

* At the time this report was completed, in June 2015, these original character-defning 

features were missing. It is recommended that they are reinstalled and maintained, as 

discussed in the following pages. 
Design Guidelines: Mt McKinley National Park

52 

Figure 12. Building 34, view to the north, 2014 (NPS Alaska Regional Offce Files) 
HEADQUARTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT: BOUNDARY EXPANSION (1950-1961)

53 

Single, paired, and tripled Low-pitched gable roof Recessed front porch with 1/1 wood sash windows 5V crimp metal roof poured concrete deck and shallow steps 

Stained vertical and horizontal 

redwood and cedar plank siding 

Attached single car gararge/woodshed 

Figure 13. Employees Residence, general plan for buildings 27,27,28 and 34, West Elevation Plan, Drawing No. NP McK-2025B, National Park Service, Architectural Division, 

Regional Offce, 1949 (NPS Alaska Regional Offce Files) 
Design Guidelines: Mt McKinley National Park

54 

Design and Maintenance Guidelines 

FOUNDATION 

The foundation is constructed of CMU walls with a poured 

concrete basement foor. 

Foundation Maintenance 

•	 Consult with a licensed structural engineer to evaluate 

and implement stabilization recommendations. 

•	 Repairs should be in-kind and match the original in 

material, size, shape, design, scale, color and craftsmanship. 

Foundation Replacement 

•	 If a portion of a foundation is deteriorated beyond repair, 

replace in-kind only the damaged portion using materials 

that match the original in material, size, shape, design, 

scale, color and craftsmanship. 

WINDOWS 

Most of the original windows have been replaced in this structure. 

The original windows of the front elevation featured a string of 

three, single one/one double-hung wood windows which create 

a picture window efect; a single one/one double-hung window 

on the left along with a single double-hung in the recessed porch 

area. The garage features a single one/one double-hung window 

in the center of the elevation on the lower portion of the wall, 

which is the last original window on the structure. 

Window Maintenance 

•	 Establish a cyclic maintenance plan to ensure proper 

operation of windows. The cyclic plan should include 

annual inspections and cleaning using the gentlest means 

as possible on a 7-year basis. 

Window Replacement 

Replacement windows should match the original as closely as 

possible, replicating operation. 

DOORS 

Honey colored veneer wood doors on the front elevation, which 

have all been replaced. 

Door Maintenance 

•	 Clean and sand the front doors by hand, removing scuf 

marks and water stains without damaging the wood 

veneer. 

•	 Do not power wash or sandblast. 

•	 Apply approved, in-kind stain. 

•	 Apply approved, in-kind varnish. 

•	 If a feature of a door is severely deteriorated beyond 

repair, it is appropriate to replace only the damaged 

portion or feature. Replace the portion or feature 

with materials similar to the original in material, size, 

shape, design, scale, color and craftsmanship. Use only 

compatible substitute materials if the original material is 

not available. 

Door Replacement 

•	 If an entire door is beyond repair or missing, replace with 

materials that match the original in size, shape, design, 

scale, color, and craftsmanship. 

•	 Ensure the replacement door duplicates the original size 

and profle, confguration, architectural trim and other 

details of the historic door. 

•	 Use only compatible substitute materials if the original 

material in not available. 

COLOR 

Originally the wood siding was stained and has been returned to 

this fnish during the rehabilitation. When the building is re-sided 

with wood use Superdeck Redwood to match Building 26. 
HEADQUARTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT: BOUNDARY EXPANSION (1950-1961)

55

 Color Maintenance 

•	 Establish a cyclic maintenance plan to ensure proper 

cycle for re-staining. The cyclic plan should include 

annual inspections and re-staining. Regular inspection 

and minor repairs to prevent moisture damage help 

prolong the fnish. 

SIDING 

Currently Building 34 is clad in aluminum lap siding and the 

garage is clad in the original horizontal redwood v-notch tongue 

and groove siding. The original redwood siding is located under 

the aluminum siding currently and is intact. 

Siding Maintenance 

•	 Protect, maintain and repair materials, details and 

features of exterior walls through appropriate 

preservation methods. 

Siding Replacement 

•	 Remove aluminum siding, insulation, wood furring. 

•	 Insulate exterior wall cavity with rigid insulation; 

Expanded Polystyrene (blue board) = R5/1’’ @ 31⁄2’’ = 

R Value of 17.5 Expanded Polystyrene, Refrigerant 31 = 

R6.25/1’’ @ 31⁄2’’= R 21.87 

•	 Polyisocyanurate Rigid Insulation = R7.04/1’’ @ 31⁄2’’ = R 

24.64 Note: The existing R value can be matched within 

the cavity of the existing exterior wall through the use 

of rigid insulation. The existing wall, if insulated with 

fberglass insulation (R 3.25/1’’) and the 11⁄2’’ expanded 

polystyrene (R 4/1’’) has an R Value of 17.37 

•	 Remove paint from garage/woodshed painted redwood 

siding. 

•	 Install cedar siding where aluminum siding is removed, 

will match the existing material as closely as possibly by 

sending a sample of the profle to the mill. 

•	 The siding should be replaced using materials that 

match the original in material, size, shape, design, scale, 

color and craftsmanship. Similar to those used in the 

rehabilitation of Building 26. 

•	 It is inappropriate to cover any historic exterior wall with 

modern substitute materials such as vinyl siding or hardiplank. 

ROOFING 

The shallow side gable roof is covered in 5V Crimp metal roofng 

which was installed in 2013. A concrete chimney pierces the rear 

portion of the gable and features a small cricket. 

Roof Maintenance 

•	 Protect and maintain the roofng materials and forms 

through regular maintenance using appropriate 

preservation methods, including removal of debris from 

roofs and cleaning and maintenance of gutter systems. 

It is important to maintain a weather tight roof for the 

long-term preservation of a historic building. 

Roof Replacement 

•	 Replace in-kind. 

•	 If full replacement of a deteriorated historic roof or 

feature is necessary, replace in-kind by matching the 

original in material, size, shape, design, scale, color and 

craftsmanship. Use only compatible substitute materials if 

the original material is not available. 

•	 It is inappropriate to remove historic roof features to ease 

the maintenance or installation of a new roof. Historic 

roof features should be preserved and maintained. 
Design Guidelines: Mt McKinley National Park

56 
HEADQUARTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT: BOUNDARY EXPANSION (1950-1961)

57 

BUILDING 51: 

SIX-PLEX APARTMENTS 

1958 
Design Guidelines: Mt McKinley National Park

58 

Figure 14. Buildiing 51, 1963, DENA Park Files 
HEADQUARTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT: BOUNDARY EXPANSION (1950-1961)

59 

GENERAL DESCRIPTION 

Constructed in 1958, Building 51 is a Park Service Modern style apartment complex with six units. The two-story building has 

a U-shaped plan and a centered, nearly full-length bay extending 

from the façade (northwest elevation). The building has tongueand-groove (t&g) V-joint wood siding, a fat asphalt roof, and a 

poured-in-place reinforced concrete foundation. The frst story of 

the façade encompasses a string of wood paneled arctic entries, 

fanked by two recessed entries that are screened by decorative 

CMU partition walls. The interior plan is comprised of two large 

units at each end (three-bedroom, one-and-one-half-bath), 

bookending a central group of four smaller units (two-bedroom, 

one-bath). The building has a full basement, housing utilities and 

an open-plan recreation center. The building retains high historic 

integrity in location, setting, design, materials, workmanship, 

feeling, and association. 

General Recommendations: 

•	 Develop and adhere to a cyclic maintenance plan, 

including: 

o Annual inspections of the foundation, siding, 

windows, doors, fnishing, and roof material. 

o Cleaning and repainting on a 7-year basis. 

•	 Retain character-defning features. 

•	 Conduct repairs in-kind. 

•	 Avoid exterior alterations. 

•	 Coordinate proposed projects with Park cultural resource 

manager and SHPO on a case-by-case basis to confrm 

projects are completed in accordance with the Secretary 

of Interior Standards for the Treatment of Historic 

Properties. 

CHARACTER-DEFINING FEATURES 

Building Exterior 

•	 Rectangular Massing 

•	 Central Bay 

•	 Flat Roof 

•	 Tongue-and-groove V-Joint Wood Siding 

o Vertical on Central Bay 

o Horizontal on End Units 

•	 “NPS Brown” Color Scheme 

•	 Decorative CMU Walls 

•	 Window Size and Spacing 

BUILDING INTERIOR 

•	 Six-Unit Apartment Building 

•	 Central Open Basement Plan 

•	 Detailing 

o Stair Banisters 

o Unit 51A Louvered Wall Feature 

o Unit 51A Parquet Flooring 

o Original light Fixtures 
Design Guidelines: Mt McKinley National Park

60 

Figure 15. Building 51, 2010, AKRO Files 
HEADQUARTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT: BOUNDARY EXPANSION (1950-1961)

Flat Roof 

Decorative CMU walls 

Central bay 

Window size and spacing 

Figure 16. Building 51, 1960, As-Constructed Drawings, ETIC 

61 
Design Guidelines: Mt McKinley National Park

62 

Design and Maintenance Guidelines 

FOUNDATION 

Partially exposed poured-in-place reinforced concrete 

foundation. 

Foundation Maintenance 

•	 Consult with a licensed structural engineer to evaluate 

and implement stabilization recommendations. 

•	 Repairs should be in-kind and match the original 

in material, size, shape, design, scale, color and 

craftsmanship. 

Foundation Replacement 

•	 If a portion of a foundation is deteriorated beyond repair, 

replace in-kind only the damaged portion using materials 

that match the original in material, size, shape, design, 

scale, color and craftsmanship. 

WINDOWS 

The original 2/2 double-hung wood sash windows were replaced 

with modern triple pane vinyl windows in 2012. 

The original windows were a character defning feature of 

Building 51 and their replacement has impacted the integrity of 

the building. That replacement project has resulted in the writing 

of these guidelines. 

Window Maintenance 

•	 Establish a cyclic maintenance plan to ensure proper 

operation of windows. The cyclic plan should include 

annual inspections and cleaning using the gentlest means 

as possible on a 7-year basis. 

•	 Faux muntin should be altered to mimic the original 2/2 

separation. 

Window Replacement 

•	 Replacement windows should match the original as 

closely as possible, replicating operation. 

DOORS 

There are seven entry doors along the front elevation, one for 

every unit and one for access to the recreation room in the 

basement. The front doors for Unit A and Unit F, shielded from 

view by decorative CMU walls, are the original honey colored 

birch wood doors with only one small square window near the 

top of the door. 

Beyond the infll arctic entries, Unit B and D retain the original 

single square window front door while Unit C now has a half 

lighted door. 

The exterior front doors of Unit B, C, D and recreation room 

access were installed in the mid-1980s and are honey colored 

birch wood, with three rectangular windows placed diagonally 

in the upper half, descending from the top left to bottom right 

corner. 

The six doors on the back elevation were installed outside of the 

period of signifcance. These honey colored wood doors have 

parallel side lights and matching screen doors. 

Door Maintenance 

•	 Clean and sand the front doors by hand, removing scuf 

marks and water stains without damaging the wood 

veneer. 

•	 Do not power wash or sandblast. 

•	 Apply approved, in-kind stain. 

•	 Apply approved, in-kind varnish. 

•	 If a feature of a door is severely deteriorated beyond 
HEADQUARTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT: BOUNDARY EXPANSION (1950-1961)

63 

repair, it is appropriate to replace only the damaged 

portion or feature. Replace the portion or feature 

with materials similar to the original in material, size, 

shape, design, scale, color and craftsmanship. Use only 

compatible substitute materials if the original material is 

not available. 

Historic Door Replacement 

•	 If an entire door is beyond repair or missing, replace 

with materials that match the original in size, shape, 

design, scale, color, and craftsmanship. 

•	 Ensure the replacement door duplicates the original 

size and profle, confguration, architectural trim and 

other details of the historic door. 

•	 Use only compatible substitute materials if the 

original material is not available. 

Non-Historic Door Replacement 

•	 If a non-historic door is beyond repair, replace with 

materials that match the original single window door for 

the front elevation. 

SIDING 

On the front elevation, the central bay is clad with 3⁄4” x 5 1⁄4” 

vertical tongue-and-groove wood siding. The end units are 

sheathed in horizontal 3⁄4” x 5 1⁄4” tongue-and- groove wood siding 

from the front of the building to the back. The interior units on 

the back elevation also feature 3⁄4” x 5 1⁄4” vertical tongue-andgroove wood siding, with a belt course separating the frst and 

second foor. The change in orientation of the siding mimics the 

adjacent “Doty Houses.” A horizontal, 3⁄4” x 4” wood, watertable 

caps the foundation 36” above grade. A 2” x 12” cedar fascia with 

caps the walls. 

Siding Maintenance 

•	 Protect, maintain and repair materials, details and 

features of exterior walls through appropriate 

preservation methods. 

Siding Replacement 

•	 If a portion of the siding is deteriorated beyond repair, 

replace in-kind only the damaged portion using materials 

that match the original in material, size, shape, design, 

scale, color and craftsmanship. 

•	 It is inappropriate to cover any historic exterior wall with 

modern substitute materials such as vinyl siding or hardiplank 

COLOR 

While most of the building is now a uniform “NPS Brown”, the 

original plans and photos show a slightly diferent variation. 

The following recommendations are from document and 

photographic analysis for use as the building requires repainting. 

•	 Conduct a paint analysis to determine original color 

scheme. 

Tongue-and-Groove Siding 

•	 The original paint color on the plans was a “brown”, color 

should be determined through paint analysis. Maintain 

“NPS Brown” unless otherwise determined. 
Design Guidelines: Mt McKinley National Park

64 

Decorative CMU Wall 

• The original paint color on the plans was a “warm white”,

color should be determined through paint analysis.

Maintain current color unless otherwise determined

Foundation 

• The original paint color on the plans was a tan, color

should be determined through paint analysis. Maintain

current color unless otherwise determined.

ROOFING 

The building’s 3:12, low sloped roof is pitched to the south 

elevation and is drained from the roof by a series of 6” K style 

metal gutters. A series of 4” diameter galvanized pipe vents and 

one 42”x44” CMU chimney pierce the roof. 

Roof Maintenance 

• Protect and maintain the roofng materials and forms

through regular maintenance using appropriate

preservation methods, including removal of debris from

roofs and cleaning and maintenance of gutter systems.

It is important to maintain a weather tight roof for the

long-term preservation of a historic building.

• Employ a qualifed engineer to complete a structural

evaluation and implement stabilization recommendations.

Roof Replacement 

• Replace in-kind.

• If full replacement of a deteriorated historic roof or

feature is necessary, replace in-kind by matching the

original in material, size, shape, design, scale, color and

craftsmanship. Use only compatible substitute materials if

the original material is not available.

• It is inappropriate to remove historic roof features to ease

the maintenance or installation of a new roof. Historic

roof features should be preserved and maintained.

DETAILING 

• Preserve and maintain these interior features:

Stair Banisters in all units 
HEADQUARTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT: BOUNDARY EXPANSION (1950-1961)

65 

Unit 51A Louvered Wall Feature, including cupboards 

Original Light Fixtures 

Unit 51A Parquet Flooring 
Design Guidelines: Mt McKinley National Park

66 
HEADQUARTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT: BOUNDARY EXPANSION (1950-1961)

67 

 

BUILDING 54: 

BOILER HOUSE 

1961 
Design Guidelines: Mt McKinley National Park

68 

Figure 17. Building 54 Interior, 1960 with original boilers which were replaced in 1985 , DENA Park Files 
HEADQUARTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT: BOUNDARY EXPANSION (1950-1961)

69 

GENERAL DESCRIPTION 

Building 54 was completed in 1961 as part of a park-unitwide utility systems upgrade. The building supports the 

headquarters district’s water, sewer, and electric systems. It is 

a single-story, rectangular, north-facing, fat-roofed, concrete 

block utility building with wings (to the east and west) and a 

contemporary, wood-framed, shed-roofed addition (to the 

west). It is built on a poured concrete slab on grade foundation 

with concrete footings. A dominant 50 foot metal ventilation 

pipe rests against the building’s south elevation. The façade 

features a large rolling steel door and two large fxed 28-pane steel 

framed windows, each with an inset four-pane awning. A simple, 

rectangular transom sits above the west wing entrance, comprised 

of a simple rectangular metal door. The interior plan is rectangular, 

with a large, open boiler room in the main mass of the building 

and a generator room and ofce in the west wing. The building 

retains high historic integrity in location, setting, design, materials, 

workmanship, feeling, and association. 

General Recommendations: 

•	 Develop and adhere to a cyclic maintenance plan, 

including: 

o Annual inspections of the foundation, siding, 

windows, doors, fnishing, and roof material. 

o Cleaning and repainting on a 7-year basis. 

•	 Retain character-defning features. 

•	 Conduct repairs in-kind. 

•	 Avoid exterior alterations. 

•	 Coordinate proposed projects with Park cultural resource 

manager and SHPO on a case-by-case basis to confrm 

projects are completed in accordance with the Secretary of 

Interior Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties. 

CHARACTER-DEFINING FEATURES 

BUILDING EXTERIOR 

•	 Rectangular Massing 

•	 Decorative Cornices 

•	 Flat Roof 

•	 Load-Bearing Concrete Block Walls 

•	 “NPS Brown” Color Scheme 

•	 Large Steel 28- Pane windows with 4 pane awning window; 

large 8- Pane windows 

•	 Transom Window 

•	 Large Roller Steel Door 

•	 Ventilation Pipe 

•	 Simple, Rectangular Doors on the wing additions 

BUILDING INTERIOR 

•	 Original Interior Floor Plan 
Design Guidelines: Mt McKinley National Park

70 

Figure 18. Building 54, North Elevation, 2011, AKRO Files 
HEADQUARTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT: BOUNDARY EXPANSION (1950-1961)

71 

Ventilation pipe 

Flat roof Decorative cornices 

Transom window 

Large 6-Pane 

steel windows 

Load-bearing 

concrete block walls 

Simple, rectangular doors 

on the wing additions Large steel 28-pane windows Large roller steel door 

with 4 pane awning window 

Figure 19. Building 54, North Elevation, As-Constructed Drawings, 1961, AKRO Files 
Design Guidelines: Mt McKinley National Park

72 

Design and Maintenance Guidelines 

WINDOWS 

The front (south) elevation of the building is dominated by 

two large steel frame windows. These windows are original to 

the building, and have 28 individual panes (four wide by seven 

tall) of glass. While most of the window is fxed in place, there 

is a pivoting panel of four glass panes near the bottom of the 

windows that allow for air circulation. The window also has a 

small sloping concrete sill. 

Window Maintenance 

•	 A preliminary step in the routine maintenance of steel 

windows is to remove surface dirt and grease in order to 

ascertain the degree of deterioration, if any. Such minor 

cleaning can be accomplished using a brush or vacuum 

followed by wiping with a cloth dampened with mineral 

spirits or denatured alcohol. 

•	 If it is determined that the windows are of basically 

sound condition, the following steps can be taken: 

1. Removal of light rust, faking and excessive paint; 

2. priming of exposed metal with a rust-inhibiting primer; 

3. replacement of cracked or broken glass and glazing 

compound; 

4. replacement of missing screws or fasteners; 

5. cleaning and lubrication of hinges; 

6. repainting of all steel sections with two coats of fnish paint 

compatible with the primer; and 

7. caulking the masonry surrounds with a high quality 

elastomeric caulk. 

FOUNDATION 

It is built on a poured concrete slab on grade foundation with 

concrete footings. 

Foundation Maintenance 

•	 Repairs should be in-kind and match the original 

in material, size, shape, design, scale, color and 

craftsmanship. 

Foundation Replacement 

•	 If a portion of a foundation is deteriorated beyond repair, 

replace in-kind only the damaged portion using materials 

that match the original in material, size, shape, design, 

scale, color and craftsmanship. 

Window Replacement 

•	 All other options should be exhausted before replacement 

windows are explored. Options include interior storm 

windows. 

•	 Replacement windows should match the original as 

closely as possible, replicating operation. 

DOORS 

To the right of the industrial windows is a two-story tall rollup steel door. This section of the building has a steel door with 

a fxed glass transom, fanked by an eight pane (two wide and 

four tall) window in the same design as the larger windows, with 

concrete sill, including a central screened vent. 

Door Maintenance 

•	 Establish a cyclic maintenance plan to ensure proper 

operation of door. The cyclic plan should include annual 

inspections and cleaning using the gentlest means as 

possible on a 7-year basis. 
HEADQUARTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT: BOUNDARY EXPANSION (1950-1961)

73

 Door Replacement 

•	 If an entire door is beyond repair or missing, replace with 

materials that match the original in size, shape, design, 

scale, color, and craftsmanship. 

•	 Ensure the replacement door duplicates the original size 

and profle, confguration, architectural trim and other 

details of the historic door. 

COLOR 

The “NPS Brown” color scheme should be maintained for both 

wall and trim

 Color Maintenance 

•	 Establish a cyclic maintenance plan to ensure proper 

cycle for re-painting. The cyclic plan should include 

annual inspections. Regular inspection and minor repairs 

to prevent moisture damage help prolong the fnish.

 Color Replacement 

•	 Only “NPS Brown” should be used. 

WALLS 

The original central portion of the building is concrete block 

construction, as is the addition on the west side of the building. 

The east lean-to addition is wood frame construction, with 

plywood covered walls. 

Wall Maintenance 

•	 Protect, maintain and repair materials, details and 

features of exterior walls through appropriate 

preservation methods. 

Wall Replacement 

•	 If a portion of the concrete block wall is deteriorated 

beyond repair, replace in-kind only the damaged portion 

using materials that match the original in material, size, 

shape, design, scale, color and craftsmanship. 

•	 It is inappropriate to cover any historic exterior wall with 

modern substitute materials such as vinyl siding or hardiplank. 

ROOFING 

Flat roofng, possibly tar and gravel. 

Roof Maintenance 

•	 Protect and maintain the roofng materials and forms 

through regular maintenance using appropriate 

preservation methods, including removal of debris from 

roofs and cleaning and maintenance of gutter systems. 

It is important to maintain a weather tight roof for the 

long-term preservation of a historic building. 

Roof Replacement 

•	 Replace in-kind. 

•	 If full replacement of a deteriorated historic roof or 

feature is necessary, replace in-kind by matching the 

original in material, size, shape, design, scale, color and 

craftsmanship. Use only compatible substitute materials if 

the original material is not available. 

•	 It is inappropriate to remove historic roof features to ease 

the maintenance or installation of a new roof. Historic 

roof features should be preserved and maintained. 
Design Guidelines: Mt McKinley National Park

74 
HEADQUARTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT: BOUNDARY EXPANSION (1950-1961)

75 

 

BUILDING 217: 

THREE-STALL GARAGE 

1957 
Design Guidelines: Mt McKinley National Park

Figure 20. Building 217, 1957, DENA Park Files 

76 
HEADQUARTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT: BOUNDARY EXPANSION (1950-1961)

77 

GENERAL DESCRIPTION 

Building 217 was constructed in 1957 to provide garage space for park employees living in Buildings 12 and 13. This side 

gable garage is rectangular in plan, with three car bays on the front 

(south) side, while the rest of the walls of the building are plain, with 

no openings. The building has a concrete block foundation, with a 

poured concrete slab foor on the interior. The wood framed structure 

is clad in 10 inch wide and 1 inch thick redwood v-notch tongue and 

groove siding painted “NPS Brown”. The 12-panel garage doors 

are framed with simple rectangular trim. The roof has open eaves, 

exposing the soft boards and purlins of the roof structure. There 

are triangular gable vents at the roofine on the left (west) and right 

(east) ends of the building. The roof itself is clad in 5V crimp metal 

sheeting. The interior of the garage is still set up to be used as garage 

parking. However, it is currently being used as administration storage. 

The building retains high historic integrity in location, setting, design, 

materials, workmanship, feeling, and association. 

General Recommendations: 

•	 Develop and adhere to a cyclic maintenance plan, 

including: 

o Annual inspections of the foundation, siding, 

doors, fnishing, and roof material. 

o Cleaning and repainting on a 7-year basis. 

•	 Retain character-defning features. 

•	 Conduct repairs in-kind. 

•	 Avoid exterior alterations. 

•	 Coordinate proposed projects with Park cultural resource 

manager and SHPO on a case-by-case basis to confrm 

projects are completed in accordance with the Secretary of 

Interior Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties. 

CHARACTER-DEFINING FEATURES 

•	 Rectangular Massing 

•	 Shallow side gable 

•	 5V Crimp Metal Roof 

•	 Ball Ridge Terminator 

•	 Gable Louver Vents 

•	 10 inch wide and 1 inch thick redwood v-notch tongue 

and groove siding 

•	 Three car bays 

•	 Three - 12-panel garage doors 

•	 Exposed CMU Foundation, Unpainted 

•	 “NPS Brown” Color Scheme 
Design Guidelines: Mt McKinley National Park

78 

Figure 21. Building 217, South Elevation, 2014, AKRO Files 
HEADQUARTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT: BOUNDARY EXPANSION (1950-1961)

79 

Shallow side gable 

5V crimp metal roof Ball ridge terminator 

Gable louver vents 

10” X 1” redwood v-notch Three carbays Exposed CMU foundation, unpainted tongue and groove siding Three-12 panel garage doors 

Figure 22. Building 217, South Elevation, 2014, AKRO Files 
Design Guidelines: Mt McKinley National Park

80 

Design and Maintenance Guidelines 

FOUNDATION 

Exposed CMU Foundation, Unpainted. 

Foundation Maintenance 

•	 Repairs should be in-kind and match the original 

in material, size, shape, design, scale, color and 

craftsmanship. 

Foundation Replacement 

•	 If a portion of a foundation is deteriorated beyond repair, 

replace in-kind only the damaged portion using materials 

that match the original in material, size, shape, design, 

scale, color and craftsmanship. 

DOORS 

The three - 12-panel wood garage doors are all original to the 

building. 

Door Maintenance 

•	 Do not power wash or sandblast. 

•	 Apply approved, in-kind paint. 

•	 If a feature of a door is severely deteriorated beyond repair, 

it is appropriate to replace only the damaged portion or 

feature. Replace the portion or feature with materials 

similar to the original in material, size, shape, design, scale, 

color and craftsmanship. Use only compatible substitute 

materials if the original material is not available. 

Door Replacement, 

•	 If an entire door is beyond replace with materials that 

match the original in size, shape, design, scale, color, 

and craftsmanship. the replacement door duplicates the 

original size and profle, confguration, architectural trim 

and other details of the historic door. 

COLOR 

The only alteration to the exterior of the building is the painting 

of the redwood siding, which was originally stained to show of 

the natural wood grain. The “NPS Brown” color scheme should 

be maintained. 

 Color Maintenance 

•	 Establish a cyclic maintenance plan to ensure proper 

cycle for re-painting. The cyclic plan should include 

annual inspections. Regular inspection and minor repairs 

to prevent moisture damage help prolong the fnish.

 Color Replacement 

•	 Only “NPS Brown” should be used. 

SIDING 

The wood framed structure is clad in 10 inch wide and 1 inch 

thick redwood v-notch tongue and groove siding which is 

original to the building. 

Siding Maintenance 

•	 Protect, maintain and repair materials, details and 

features of exterior walls through appropriate 

preservation methods. 

Siding Replacement 

•	 If a portion of the siding is deteriorated beyond repair, 

replace in-kind only the damaged portion using materials 

that match the original in material, size, shape, design, 

scale, color and craftsmanship. 
HEADQUARTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT: BOUNDARY EXPANSION (1950-1961)

81 

•	 It is inappropriate to cover any historic exterior wall with 

modern substitute materials such as vinyl siding or hardi-

plank. 

ROOFING 

Although maintenance records show that the roof was replaced 

in- kind in 2002, from the photos the roof appears to be the 

original 5V crimp metal roofng with original fnish and ball ridge 

terminator. 

Roof Maintenance 

•	 Protect and maintain the roofng materials and forms 

through regular maintenance using appropriate 

preservation methods, including removal of debris from 

roofs and cleaning and maintenance of gutter systems. 

It is important to maintain a weather tight roof for the 

long-term preservation of a historic building. 

Roof Replacement: 

•	 Replace in-kind. 

•	 If full replacement of a deteriorated historic roof or 

feature is necessary, replace in-kind by matching the 

original in material, size, shape, design, scale, color and 

craftsmanship. Use only compatible substitute materials if 

the original material is not available. 

•	 It is inappropriate to remove historic roof features to ease 

the maintenance or installation of a new roof. Historic 

roof features should be preserved and maintained. 
Design Guidelines: Mt McKinley National Park

82 
HEADQUARTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT: BOUNDARY EXPANSION (1950-1961)

83 

5 Design Guidelines: New Construction 
Design Guidelines: Mt McKinley National Park

84 

 

The Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties (Standards) were developed to provide guidance for the 

appropriate treatment of historic properties to assist in the long term preservation of a property’s signifcance. The Standards can be 

applied to historic properties of all types, materials, construction, sizes, and use. They include both the exterior and the interior and 

extend to a property’s landscape features, site, environment, as well as related new construction. They pertain specifcally to a property’s 

historic materials and features including all types of materials, construction, size and occupancy. (36 Code of Federal Regulations Part 68). 

Prior to undertaking a new construction project, there must be an understanding of the distinct architectural character of the afected 

historic buildings, landscapes and/or districts. This includes a close examination of building materials, features and details as well as 

setting and site features like spacing, setback, placement, scale and orientation. New construction should not be a direct duplication of the 

distinctive architectural elements of existing historic buildings or landscapes to be a successful addition to a historic property or district. 

Rather, it should be of a contemporary design that is sensitive and compatible with these elements. 

5.1 Guidelines for New Construction 

1. New construction within the boundaries of a historic 4. New additions, exterior alterations, or related new

district will be compatible and sensitive to the historic construction will not destroy historic materials, features,

buildings in the district in terms of height, form, massing, and spatial relationships that characterize the property.

scale, size, proportion, roof type and architectural details;

but do not replicate existing historic buildings. Avoid 5. New additions and adjacent or related new construction

creating a false historical appearance. will be undertaken in such a manner that, if removed in

the future, the essential form and integrity of the historic

2. Design new construction to retain and protect the overall property and its environment would be unimpaired.

historic character of a historic landscape and/or district

including such elements as the site, topography, landscape

features and historic views and vistas.

3. Select materials and fnishes for new construction

that are compatible with the historic materials and

fnishes of surrounding historic buildings with regard to

composition, scale, pattern, detail, texture, fnish, color

and sheen.
HEADQUARTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT: BOUNDARY EXPANSION (1950-1961)

85 

As new construction within the boundaries of a historic district will be compatible with the surrounding buildings and landscape features the 

district in terms of height, form, massing, scale, size, proportion, roof type and architectural details. The new construction should be sympathetic 

to the National Park Service Rustic but will not replicate existing historic buildings to avoid creating a false historical appearance. 

Form 

• Regular geometry

• Rectangular plans

• Simple roofs (e.g. constant slope)

Massing 

• In balance with natural surroundings (landform and

vegetation) 

• 1 - 1 1⁄2 story

• Rectangular, ftted to existing foundation

• Ridgeline 25 – 30 feet above grade

• Simple gable roof line

• Large Shed Dormer on southern elevation

Walls 

• Walls should be straight and made from a single material

type with a strongly articulated, separate base

• Lower portion of the building should have horizontal

shiplap/clapboard siding

• Distinctive water table or banding near bottom of frst

story windows

• Upper story and gable ends should have vertical board

and batten

Finishes 

• “NPS Brown” body and trim

Roofng 

• Metal Roofng; Corrugated, 5V or Standing Seam

• Use a naturally dulling or painted matte fnish, fat gray,

dark green, brown, mill-phosphatized zinc

• Generally steeper pitch (7:12 to 12:12)

Windows 

• Vertically oriented/double hung and/or divided light

• Band smaller windows together to form larger glazed

areas

• Avoid large “picture” windows

• Take into account window to wall ratio of existing

structures

• Windows should be more extensive on the south facing

elevation 

Doors 

• Simple, 5 Panel Solid Wood Door

• If glazed, divided lights in upper half only

Entries 

• Should be sheltered with an shed roof arctic entry

• Take into account snow shed
Design Guidelines: Mt McKinley National Park

Gable roof 

5.2 New Construction Recommendation 

Horizontal 

clapboard 

Water table 

Shed roof 

arctic entry 

Board and batten 

5 panel exterior door 

Double-casement 

windows 

One-over-one 

windows 

Absence of 

snow guards 

Concrete foundation 

Concrete chimney 

Metal roof 

Large shed dormers 

Shed roof porches 

Character Defning Features 

• Rectangular, 1 1⁄2 story, gable structure

• Metal roof, green standing seam metal roof

• Shed roof arctic entries or porches

• Large shed roof dormer

• Board and batten siding on second story (vertical)

• Horizontal clapboard siding on frst story

(horizontal)

• Water Table

• Brown window and door trim

• Concrete foundation and chimney

• Five panel solid wood door

86 
 

HEADQUARTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT: BOUNDARY EXPANSION (1950-1961)

6 Design Guidelines: 

Original Core District (1926-1941) 

87 
Design Guidelines: Mt McKinley National Park

88 
HEADQUARTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT: BOUNDARY EXPANSION (1950-1961)

89 

 BUILDING 12: 

EMPLOYEE RESIDENCE – APARTMENTS 

1938 
Design Guidelines: Mt McKinley National Park

90 

Figure 23. Building 12 (Employee Residence – Apartments), view to the southwest, Catalog No. DENA 9101.12.6, 1951 (Denali National Park and Preserve Museum 

Collection Archives) 
HEADQUARTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT: BOUNDARY EXPANSION (1950-1961)

91 

GENERAL DESCRIPTION 

T he CCC constructed the employee’s rough lumber sided residence in 1938. Building 12 and Building 13 are the only 

buildings design by the NPS Branch of Plans and Designs during 

the period of signifcance with rough wood siding. Between 1953 

and 1954, both of the two-story single family residences were 

converted into two-unit apartment building. 

Frame construction with clapboard siding (lower portion) and 

vertical board-and-batten siding (upper portion); painted dark 

brown; 25’ x 26’10”; two stories; gable roof with wood shakes; 

reinforced concrete foundation with daylight basement; horizontal 

three- and four-light sash windows. The original roofng was metal 

and was replaced in the 1950s with wood shake. 

The building retains high historic integrity in location, setting, 

design, materials, workmanship, feeling, and association. 

General Recommendations: 

• Develop and adhere to a cyclic maintenance plan,

including:

o Annual inspections of the foundation, siding,

windows, doors, fnishing, and roof material.

o Cleaning and repainting on a 7-year basis.

• Retain character-defning features.

• Conduct repairs in-kind.

• Avoid exterior alterations.

• Coordinate proposed projects with Park cultural resource

manager and SHPO on a case-by-case basis to confrm

projects are completed in accordance with the Secretary of

Interior Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties.

CHARACTER-DEFINING FEATURES 

• Rectangular, two story, side-gable structure

• Board and batten siding on second story

• Horizontal clapboard siding on frst story

• Water table

• Double-casement varying 3:3, 4:4, 4:4:4 light windows

• Brown window and door trim

• 30’ from apex of roof to grade

• Shed roof arctic entries
Design Guidelines: Mt McKinley National Park

92 

Figure 24. Building 12, view to the southwest, 2014 (NPS Alaska Regional Offce fles) 
HEADQUARTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT: BOUNDARY EXPANSION (1950-1961)

Concrete chimney 

Double-casement 

windows 

Horizontal 

clapboard 

Water table 

Shed roof 

arctic entry 

Board and batten 

Figure 25. Building 12, East Elevation, 2012 (NPS Alaska Regional Offce fles) 

93 
Design Guidelines: Mt McKinley National Park

94 
HEADQUARTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT: BOUNDARY EXPANSION (1950-1961)

95 

BUILDING 13:

 EMPLOYEE RESIDENCE - APARTMENTS 

1938 
Design Guidelines: Mt McKinley National Park

96 

Figure 26. Building 13 (Employee Residence – Apartments), view to the southwest, Catalog No. DENA 21477, 1963 

(Denali National Park and Preserve Museum Collection Archives) 
HEADQUARTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT: BOUNDARY EXPANSION (1950-1961)

97 

GENERAL DESCRIPTION 

T he CCC constructed the employee’s rough lumber sided residence in 1938. Building 12 and Building 13 are the only 

buildings design by the NPS Branch of Plans and Designs during 

the period of signifcance with rough wood siding. Between 1953 

and 1954, both of the two-story single family residences were 

converted into two-unit apartment building. 

Frame construction with clapboard siding (lower portion) and 

vertical board-and-batten siding (upper portion); painted dark 

brown; 25’ x 26’10”; two stories; gable roof with wood shakes; 

reinforced concrete foundation with daylight basement; horizontal 

three- and four-light sash windows. The original roofng was metal 

and was replaced in the 1950s with wood shake. 

The building retains high historic integrity in location, setting, 

design, materials, workmanship, feeling, and association. 

General Recommendations: 

• Develop and adhere to a cyclic maintenance plan,

including:

o Annual inspections of the foundation, siding,

windows, doors, fnishing, and roof material.

o Cleaning and repainting on a 7-year basis.

• Retain character-defning features.

• Conduct repairs in-kind.

• Avoid exterior alterations.

• Coordinate proposed projects with Park cultural resource

manager and SHPO on a case-by-case basis to confrm

projects are completed in accordance with the Secretary of

Interior Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties.

CHARACTER-DEFINING FEATURES 

• Rectangular, two story, side-gable structure

• Board and batten siding on second story

• Horizontal clapboard siding on frst story

• Water Table

• Double-casement varying 3:3, 4:4, 4:4:4 light windows

• Brown window and door trim

• Five-Panel solid wood door

• 30’ from apex of roof to grade

• Shed roof arctic entries
Design Guidelines: Mt McKinley National Park

98 

Figure 27. Building 13, view to the southwest, 2014 (NPS Alaska Regional Offce fles) 
HEADQUARTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT: BOUNDARY EXPANSION (1950-1961)

99 

Wood shakes 

Board and batten 

Horizontal 

clapboard 

Water table 

Shed roof 

arctic entry 

5 panel exterior door 

Double-casement 

windows 

Figure 28. Building 13, East Elevation, 2012 (NPS Alaska Regional Offce fles) 
Design Guidelines: Mt McKinley National Park

100 
HEADQUARTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT: BOUNDARY EXPANSION (1950-1961)

101 

 

 

BUILDING 21: 

RANGER’S DORMITORY 

1934 
Design Guidelines: Mt McKinley National Park

102 

Figure 29. Building 21 (Ranger’s Dormitory), view to the southwest, (Denali National Park and Preserve Museum Collection Archives) 
HEADQUARTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT: BOUNDARY EXPANSION (1950-1961)

103 

GENERAL DESCRIPTION 

Between 1934 and 1935, crews constructed the two-story log rangers’ dorm in the approximate on the site of the rangers’ 

quarters destroyed by fre the same year. In c. 1952-1954, the 

rangers’ dorm became the park’s administrative ofce. 

Designed by the National Park Service and built by park 

personnel and contracted labor, this 34’ x 34’ square building 

features 1 1⁄2 stories with enough dormer room to be considered 

a two story building and a poured reinforced concrete foundation 

with daylight basement. A dormer-like second foor is the primary 

roof with a secondary gable at the front and rear elevations. The 

roof features false purlins and is covered in corrugated metal. 

The ground foor has horizontal peeled logs with saddle notching 

and the second foor has vertical rounded planks over frame 

construction, all painted dark brown. Single light casement and 

picture windows; doors on east and west elevations. Most of the 

original multi-light windows have been replaced with single pane 

casement windows. The east gable end and the western most 

window on the north elevation retains the original multi-light 

windows. The front porch has over-scaled log columns to be in 

keeping with the rustic appearance. The single remaining chimney 

has a veneer of native stone. 

Second foor windows were all designed to have decorative 

shutters on all elevations, which do not appear to have ever been 

installed. The foundation was originally designed to have native 

stone veneer to match the chimneys. The original design called for 

stone steps and porch deck. 

The building retains high historic integrity in location, setting, 

design, materials, workmanship, feeling, and association. 

General Recommendations: 

• Develop and adhere to a cyclic maintenance plan,

including:

o Annual inspections of the foundation, siding,

windows, doors, fnishing, and roof material.

o Cleaning and repainting on a 7-year basis.

• Retain character-defning features.

• Conduct repairs in-kind.

• Avoid exterior alterations.

• Coordinate proposed projects with Park cultural resource

manager and SHPO on a case-by-case basis to confrm

projects are completed in accordance with the Secretary

of Interior Standards for the Treatment of Historic

Properties.

CHARACTER-DEFINING FEATURES 

• Rectangular, 1 1⁄2 story, side-gable structure

• Corrugated metal roof with a 12:12 pitch

• Exposed false purlins

• Vertical rounded plank siding on second story

• Horizontal log exterior on frst story

• Native stone veneer chimney

• Cream/White window and door trim

• 30’ from apex of roof to grade

• Logs are cut at an angle on ends

• Set of three, 2/4 wood sash windows on east gable end

• 4/4 wood sash window on north elevation
Design Guidelines: Mt McKinley National Park

104 

Figure 30. Building 21, view to the southwest, 2014 (NPS Alaska Regional Offce fles) 
HEADQUARTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT: BOUNDARY EXPANSION (1950-1961)

Gable roof 

Large shed dormers Corrugated metal roof 

Exposed false purlins 

Vertical rounded planks 

Shed roof porches 

Saddlenotched 

Horizontal logs 

Flared log ends 

Figure 31. Building 21, West Elevation, 2012 (NPS Alaska Regional Offce fles 

105 
Design Guidelines: Mt McKinley National Park

106 
HEADQUARTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT: BOUNDARY EXPANSION (1950-1961)

107 

BUILDING 22:

 OFFICE BUILDING 

1926 
Design Guidelines: Mt McKinley National Park

108 

Figure 32. Building 22 (Offce Building), view to the northeast, Catalog No. DENA 2225, n.d. (Denali National Park and Preserve Museum Collection Archives) 
HEADQUARTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT: BOUNDARY EXPANSION (1950-1961)

109 

GENERAL DESCRIPTION 

Building 22 was constructed in 1926 to serve as an ofce building close to the road. In 1950 it was moved and in 1952 

it was moved north of the road. It is a single-story, rectangular, 

front gabled, south-facing, log building with a small, front-gabled, 

one-room, wood-framed, rear addition and a full-length log 

front porch. It has a corrugated metal roof, square-hewn, squarenotched log crowns. The building measures 20’6” x 19’6” with a 

small rear addition, sheathed with board-and-batten siding. The 

interior plan is rectangular with a small rear bedroom addition. The 

main mass of the building is comprised of a large living room, with 

a small kitchen and bathroom. The building retains high historic 

integrity in location, setting, design, materials, workmanship, 

feeling, and association. 

General Recommendations: 

• Develop and adhere to a cyclic maintenance plan,

including:

o Annual inspections of the foundation, siding,

windows, doors, fnishing, and roof material.

o Cleaning and repainting on a 7-year basis.

• Retain character-defning features.

• Conduct repairs in-kind.

• Avoid exterior alterations.

• Coordinate proposed projects with Park cultural resource

manager and SHPO on a case-by-case basis to confrm

projects are completed in accordance with the Secretary

of Interior Standards for the Treatment of Historic

Properties.

CHARACTER-DEFINING FEATURES 

Building Exterior 

• Rectangular massing

• Log construction

• Square-hewn and square-notched log crowns

• Front-Gabled Roof

• “NPS Brown” color scheme

• Full-length log front porch

• Six-light wood awning windows

Building Interior 

• Original interior foor plan

• Interior Log - Unpeeled
Design Guidelines: Mt McKinley National Park

110 

Figure 33. Building 22, view to the northwest, 2012 (NPS Alaska Regional Offce fles) 
HEADQUARTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT: BOUNDARY EXPANSION (1950-1961)

Full-length log 

front porch 

Gable roof 

Square notched 

log contstruction 

Figure 34. Building 22, East Elevation, Historic American Building Survey, W. Vandeventer and Dave Snow, 1986 (NPS Alaska Regional Offce fles) 

111 
Design Guidelines: Mt McKinley National Park

112 
HEADQUARTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT: BOUNDARY EXPANSION (1950-1961)

113 

 BUILDING 23: 

EMPLOYEE’S RESIDENCE 

1940 
Design Guidelines: Mt McKinley National Park

114 

Figure 35. Building 23 (Employee’s Residence), view to the northeast, Catalog No. DENA 21458, 1963 (Denali National Park and Preserve Museum Collection Archives) 
HEADQUARTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT: BOUNDARY EXPANSION (1950-1961)

115 

GENERAL DESCRIPTION 

Building 23 was designed by the National Park Service, and built by the Civilian Conservation Corps, the Alaska Road 

Commission, park personnel, and contracted labor between 1940 

and 1941 to serve as the superintendent’s residence. It is a single 

story, wood-framed, 46’6” x 28’, side-gabled building with a log 

veneer. With large, round, horizontal logs covering the exterior of 

the frst story, the building also features thin, round, vertical logs 

that sheath the gables. The building has two partially enclosed 

log arctic entries with saddle-notched log crowns and exposed 

purlins. It has a steeply pitched metal roof with a wide dormer and 

a concrete foundation. Fenestration is regular with paired, oneover-one, wood sash windows. A picture window, fanked by oneover-one wood sash windows, pierces the west end of the south 

elevation. The building’s interior central hall plan is comprised of 

three rectangular foors, which will be described in order of how 

they appear, clockwise. The basement has a large L-shaped storage 

area, a furnace room, and a coal bin. The frst foor contains a small 

bathroom, two bedrooms, a living room, and kitchen. The second 

foor contains two bedrooms. The building retains high historic 

integrity in location, setting, design, materials, workmanship, 

feeling, and association. 

General Recommendations: 

• Develop and adhere to a cyclic maintenance plan,

including:

o Annual inspections of the foundation, siding,

windows, doors, fnishing, and roof material.

o Cleaning and repainting on a 7-year basis.

• Retain character-defning features.

• Conduct repairs in-kind.

• Avoid exterior alterations.

• Coordinate proposed projects with Park cultural resource

manager and SHPO on a case-by-case basis to confrm

projects are completed in accordance with the Secretary

of Interior Standards for the Treatment of Historic

Properties.

CHARACTER-DEFINING FEATURES 

Building Exterior 

• Rectangular massing

• Steeply-pitched (12:12), side-gabled, metal roof

• 30’ from apex of roof to grade

• Exposed false purlins

• Horizontal log frst story walls

• Flared saddle-notched log crowns

• Vertical rounded plank siding in gables

• “NPS brown” color scheme

• Rectangular 1/1 wood sash windows

• Front-gabled, log arctic entries with exposed purlins and

saddle-notched log crowns

Concrete foundation and chimney 
Design Guidelines: Mt McKinley National Park

116 

Figure 36. Building 23, view to the east, 2014 (NPS Alaska Regional Offce fles) 
HEADQUARTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT: BOUNDARY EXPANSION (1950-1961)

Concrete chimney 

Saddlenotch 

Metal roof 

Single small 

Exposed false shed dormer 

purlins 

Gable roofed Absence of 

porches snow guards 

One-over-one 

windows 

Log/log veneer Log ends 

fare out 

Concrete foundation 

Figure 37. Building 23, South Elevation, 2012 (NPS Alaska Regional Offce 

117 
Design Guidelines: Mt McKinley National Park

118 
HEADQUARTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT: BOUNDARY EXPANSION (1950-1961)

119 

 

BUILDING 101: 

WAREHOUSE 

1928 
Design Guidelines: Mt McKinley National Park

120 

Figure 38. Building 101 (Warehouse), to the northwest, Catalog No. DENA 21198, 1932 (Denali National Park and Preserve Museum Collection Archives) 
HEADQUARTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT: BOUNDARY EXPANSION (1950-1961)

121 

GENERAL DESCRIPTION 

uilding 101 was designed by the National Park Service

• “NPS Brown” Color Scheme

• Barn doors

• Loading Dock Band constructed by park personnel in 1928. It is a one and 

half-story, rectangular, side-gabled, log building on a concrete 

foundation, with a 32’ x 32’ footprint. A loading dock was the 

prominent feature of the south elevation. During restoration 

eforts, a truncated loading dock has been retained below the barn 

doors which preserves the intent while allowing vehicular trafc 

through. The building retains high historic integrity in location, 

setting, design, materials, workmanship, feeling, and association. 

General Recommendations: 

• Develop and adhere to a cyclic maintenance plan,

including:

o Annual inspections of the foundation, siding,

windows, doors, fnishing, and roof material.

o Cleaning and repainting on a 7-year basis.

• Retain character-defning features.

• Conduct repairs in-kind.

• Avoid exterior alterations.

• Coordinate proposed projects with Park cultural resource

manager and SHPO on a case-by-case basis to confrm

projects are completed in accordance with the Secretary

of Interior Standards for the Treatment of Historic

Properties.

CHARACTER-DEFINING FEATURES 

Building Exterior 

• Rectangular Massing

• 1-1/2 stories

• Gable Roof with wood shingles

• Saddle notched logs which alternate in stacking
Design Guidelines: Mt McKinley National Park

122 

Figure 39. Building 101, to the northeast, 2014 (NPS Alaska Regional Offce Files) 
HEADQUARTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT: BOUNDARY EXPANSION (1950-1961)

Gable roof 

with wood shingles 

Barn door 

Loading dock 

Saddlenotched 

Figure 40. Building 101, South Elevation, Historic American Building Survey, National Park Service, W. Vandeventer and Dave Snow, 1986 (NPS Alaska Regional Offce Files) 

123 
Design Guidelines: Mt McKinley National Park

124 
HEADQUARTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT: BOUNDARY EXPANSION (1950-1961)

125 

 

BUILDING 102: 

GARAGE AND REPAIR SHOP 

1939 
Design Guidelines: Mt McKinley National Park

126 

Figure 41. Building 102 (Garage and Repair Shop), view to the southwest, Catalog No. DENA 21158, 1939 (Denali National Park and Preserve Museum Collection Archives) 
HEADQUARTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT: BOUNDARY EXPANSION (1950-1961)

127 

GENERAL DESCRIPTION 

Building 102 was designed by National Park Service and built by Civilian Conservation Corps in 1939. It is a rectangular, 

38’8” x 30’, board-formed reinforced concrete structure with 

daylight basement, with a gable metal roof. The exposed east gable 

end is covered in horizontal wood siding. Twenty-panel, three 

vehicle bays, doors and a pedestrian door are on the north façade. 

The structure has both nine and six light casement windows. The 

building has been expanded to the west, these additions are not 

contributing to the district. The building retains high historic 

integrity in location, setting, design, materials, workmanship, 

feeling, and association. 

General Recommendations: 

• Develop and adhere to a cyclic maintenance plan,

including:

o Annual inspections of the foundation, siding,

windows, doors, fnishing, and roof material.

o Cleaning and repainting on a 7-year basis.

• Retain character-defning features.

• Conduct repairs in-kind.

• Avoid exterior alterations.

• Coordinate proposed projects with Park cultural resource

manager and SHPO on a case-by-case basis to confrm

projects are completed in accordance with the Secretary

of Interior Standards for the Treatment of Historic

Properties.

CHARACTER-DEFINING FEATURES 

Building Exterior 

• Rectangular Massing

• Gable Metal Roof

• Horizontal Wood Siding in Gable End

• Board-Formed Reinforced Concrete

• “NPS Brown” Color Scheme

• Casement Windows 9- and 6-Pane Windows

• Three Vehicle Bay Doors

Shed roof arctic entries 
Design Guidelines: Mt McKinley National Park

128 

Figure 42. Building 102, view to the southwest, 2014 (NPS Alaska Regional Offce Files) 
HEADQUARTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT: BOUNDARY EXPANSION (1950-1961)

129 

Gable Roof 

Metal Roofng 

Horizontal wood 

siding in gable end 

Board-formed 

reinforced 

concrete walls 

Three vehicle 

bay doors 

Figure 43. Building 102, North Elevation, Historic American Building Survey, National Park Service, W. Vandeventer and Dave Snow, 1986 (NPS Alaska Regional Offce Files) 
Design Guidelines: Mt McKinley National Park

130 
HEADQUARTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT: BOUNDARY EXPANSION (1950-1961)

131 

 

 

BUILDING 103: 

GARAGE 

1931 
Design Guidelines: Mt McKinley National Park

132 

Figure 44. Building 103 (Garage), view to the northwest, Catalog No. DENA 21931, 1937 (Denali National Park and Preserve Museum Collection Archives) 
HEADQUARTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT: BOUNDARY EXPANSION (1950-1961)

133 

GENERAL DESCRIPTION 

Building 103 was designed by National Park Service and built in 1931. This one-story, exposed peeled log frame with 

vertical board-and-batten exterior walls, 25’ x 42”2”, rectangular 

structure, features a salt-box roof with horizontal black rolled 

roofng and rests on a poured concrete foundation. Log purlins 

and rafters are exposed at the eaves and gable ends. Four leaf-type 

garage doors on the south elevation were originally designed with 

rails, stiles, and exposed cross bucks with vertical plank panels. To 

accommodate ofce space, the top portion of the doors have been 

replaced with fxed 4-light panes. The building retains high historic 

integrity in location, setting, design, materials, workmanship, 

feeling, and association. 

General Recommendations: 

• Develop and adhere to a cyclic maintenance plan,

including:

o Annual inspections of the foundation, siding,

windows, doors, fnishing, and roof material.

o Cleaning and repainting on a 7-year basis.

• Retain character-defning features.

• Conduct repairs in-kind.

• Avoid exterior alterations.

• Coordinate proposed projects with Park cultural resource

manager and SHPO on a case-by-case basis to confrm

projects are completed in accordance with the Secretary

of Interior Standards for the Treatment of Historic

Properties.

CHARACTER-DEFINING FEATURES 

Building Exterior 

• Rectangular Massing

• Exposed Peeled Log Frame

• Vertical Board-and-Batten Walls

• Salt-Box Roof

• Black Rolled Roofng

• “NPS Brown” Color Scheme

• Four Leaf-Type Garage Doors
Design Guidelines: Mt McKinley National Park

134 

Figure 45. Building 103, view to the northwest, 2014 (NPS Alaska Regional Offce Files) 
HEADQUARTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT: BOUNDARY EXPANSION (1950-1961)

Salt-box roof 

Exposed log 

purlins and 

rafters 

Black rolled roofng 

Exposed log 

frame 

Vertical board 

and batten 

Four leaf-type 

garage doors 

Figure 46. Building 103, South Elevation, Historic American Building Survey, National Park Service, W. Vandeventer and Dave Snow, 1986 (Alaska Regional Offce Files) 

135 
Design Guidelines: Mt McKinley National Park

136 
HEADQUARTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT: BOUNDARY EXPANSION (1950-1961)

137 

 

 

BUILDING 105: 

DOG FEED CACHE AND SLED STORAGE 

1929 
Design Guidelines: Mt McKinley National Park

138 

Figure 47. Building 105 (Dog Feed Cache and Sled Storage), view to the southwest, Catalog No. DENA 4323, n.d. (Denali National Park and Preserve Museum Collection Archives) 
HEADQUARTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT: BOUNDARY EXPANSION (1950-1961)

139 

GENERAL DESCRIPTION 

Building 105 was constructed in 1929. The heavy peeled log exterior post and beam log frame dog cache with reversed 

board-and-batten in-fll consists of a one and one-half story gable 

roofed structure measuring 15’3” x 24’ with a shed roof additions 

on either end. The western addition measuring 12’ x 24’ shed 

serves as sled storage, while the 8’9” x 16’ addition on the east 

houses the mechanical equipment for the building. The entire 

structure rests on a concrete slab foundation, which is covered 

with plank fooring in the main section of the structure. Two sixlight casement windows fank the main door, while at the back 

room two more six-light casement windows occupy the south 

wall. The log purlin and rafter roofs are covered with wood planks 

and wood shakes but was originally designed for rolled roofng. 

The building retains high historic integrity in location, setting, 

design, materials, workmanship, feeling, and association. 

General Recommendations: 

• Develop and adhere to a cyclic maintenance plan,

including:

o Annual inspections of the foundation, siding,

windows, doors, fnishing, and roof material.

o Cleaning and repainting on a 7-year basis.

• Retain character-defning features.

• Conduct repairs in-kind.

• Avoid exterior alterations.

• Coordinate proposed projects with Park cultural resource

manager and SHPO on a case-by-case basis to confrm

projects are completed in accordance with the Secretary of

Interior Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties.

CHARACTER-DEFINING FEATURES 

• Central Rectangular Massing, Rectangular Addition

• Heavy Peeled Log Exterior Frame

• Reversed Board-and-Batten

• Exposed Purlins and Rafters

• Gable Roof, east shed roof addition

• “NPS Brown” Color Scheme

• Six-Pane Casement Windows with Exterior Storm

Windows

• Vertical Board Doors

• Metal Ventilation Pipes
Design Guidelines: Mt McKinley National Park

140 

Figure 48. Building 105, view to the southwest, 2014 (NPS Alaska Regional Offce Files 
HEADQUARTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT: BOUNDARY EXPANSION (1950-1961)

Central rectangular masting 

Exposed log 

purlins and rafters 

Exterior 

log frame 

Six-pane 

casement windows Reversed Vertical 

board doors with exterior storm windows board-and-batten 

Figure 49. Building 105, North Elevation, Historic American Building Survey, National Park Service, W. Vandeventer and Dave Snow, 1950 (NPS Alaska Regional Offce Files) 

141 
Design Guidelines: Mt McKinley National Park

142 
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143 

BUILDING 105A: 

DOG HOUSES 

1969 
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Figure 50. View west of the dog kennels during a sled dog demonstration, July 1963. (DENA 11-66, Denali National Park and Preserve Museum Collection) 
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145 

GENERAL DESCRIPTION Building 105A are continually being used and rebuilt. These 

3’6” x 3’6” square dog houses have a low profle of 2’8” and 

feature plywood construction covered in rounded logs with a 

shallow shed roof. This resource is in a “consumptive use” status 

as dog are not the best at preservation eforts. There are standard 

plans that the Kennels Staf have developed that blend well with 

the landscape and meet the needs of the occupants. 

General Recommendations: • Develop and adhere to a cyclic maintenance plan,

including: o Annual inspections

• Retain character-defning features. • Conduct repairs in-kind. • Coordinate proposed projects with Park cultural resource

manager and SHPO on a case-by-case basis to confrm

projects are completed in accordance with the Secretary

of Interior Standards for the Treatment of Historic

Properties.

CHARACTER-DEFINING FEATURES 

Structure Exterior • Low Profle • Square • Log Construction • Shallow Shed Roof
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Figure 51. Building 105A, view to the north, 2011 (NPS Alaska Regional Offce Files) 
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147 

Figure 52. Building 105A, hand drawn sketch of current construction of dog houses used by the kennel staff (Denali Kennels Files) 
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149 

BUILDING 105B: 

DOG KENNELS 

1969 
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150 

Figure 53. View southwest of the kennels and the dog feed cache Joseph S. Dixon, Field Naturalist for the NPS, June 2, 1932 (DENA-69-3-43, Harpers Ferry Center) 
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151 

GENERAL DESCRIPTION Building 105B is a fourteen unit dog kennel, approximately 16’ 

x 112’. Each unit is post frame covered with heavy gage wire 

mesh, with a concrete foor, and wooden access door for each unit 

with a log constructed dog house included. All milled wood is 

painted “NPS Brown.” 

General Recommendations: • Develop and adhere to a cyclic maintenance plan,

including: o Annual inspections

• Retain character-defning features. • Conduct repairs in-kind. • Avoid exterior alterations. • Coordinate proposed projects with Park cultural resource

manager and SHPO on a case-by-case basis to confrm

projects are completed in accordance with the Secretary

of Interior Standards for the Treatment of Historic

Properties.

CHARACTER-DEFINING FEATURES 

Structure Exterior • Elongated Rectangular Massing • Post Frame Construction • Heavy Gage Wire Mesh • Wood Access Door
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Figure 54. Building 105B, view to the southwest, 2014 (NPS Alaska Regional Offce Files) 
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153 
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155 

 

 

BUILDING 106:

 BARN 

1928 
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Figure 55. View southeast of the barn (Building 106), prior to 1931 (DENA 3974, Denali National Park and Preserve) 
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157 

GENERAL DESCRIPTION 

Building 106 was constructed in 1928-1929 by the National Park Service and is a 42’ x 19’3” one-story, peeled, saddle 

and dovetail corner notched log building. The roof is front-gabled 

with exposed log purlins and fascia boards at the roof edge. It 

is currently sheathed in wood shingles. The roof was originally 

designed for black rolled roofng and is scheduled to return to 

that material when the life cycle of the current roof has expired. 

Windows vary from four lights to twelve lights and are placed 

singularly as well as in pairs. There are vertical plank doors for the 

entrance and the attic loft. The non-contributing shed addition 

has been removed. 

The building retains high historic integrity in location, setting, 

design, materials, workmanship, feeling, and association. 

General Recommendations: 

• Develop and adhere to a cyclic maintenance plan,

including:

o Annual inspections of the foundation, siding,

windows, doors, fnishing, and roof material.

o Cleaning and repainting on a 7-year basis.

• Retain character-defning features.

• Conduct repairs in-kind.

• Avoid exterior alterations.

• Coordinate proposed projects with Park cultural resource

manager and SHPO on a case-by-case basis to confrm

projects are completed in accordance with the Secretary

of Interior Standards for the Treatment of Historic

Properties.

CHARACTER-DEFINING FEATURES 

Building Exterior 

• Rectangular Massing

• Peeled, Saddle and Dovetail Notched Log

• Front-Gabled Roof with exposed Log Purlins and Fascia

Boards

• “NPS Brown” Color Scheme

• 4-Pane to 12- Pane Windows

• Vertical Board Doors
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158 

Figure 56. Building 106, view to the northeast, 2014 (NPS Alaska Regional Offce Files) 
HEADQUARTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT: BOUNDARY EXPANSION (1950-1961)

Front-gable roof with 

exposed log purlins 

and fascia boards 

windows Saddle and dovetail 

notched logs 

Twelve-pane 

Figure 57. Building 106, South Elevation, Historic American Building Survey, National Park Service, W. Vandeventer and Dave Snow, 1986 (NPS Alaska Regional Offce Files) 

159 
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161 

 

BUILDING 107: 

BOILER HOUSE 

1932 
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Figure 58. Building 107, view to the north, Catalog No. DENA 21226, 1942 (Denali National Park and Preserve Museum Collection Archives) 
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163 

GENERAL DESCRIPTION 

Building 107 was constructed in 1932 by park personnel. This 19’8”x 25’6”, one-story, peeled log, saddle notched building 

features a front-gable roof with exposed log purlins and rafters 

sheathed in black rolled roofng, all resting on a board-formed 

concrete stem wall. Windows have six-light wood sashes and are 

placed in pairs. There a vertical wood plank door on the south 

elevation. 

The building retains high historic integrity in location, setting, 

design, materials, workmanship, feeling, and association. 

General Recommendations: 

• Develop and adhere to a cyclic maintenance plan,

including:

o Annual inspections of the foundation, siding,

windows, doors, fnishing, and roof material.

o Cleaning and repainting on a 7-year basis.

• Retain character-defning features.

• Conduct repairs in-kind.

• Avoid exterior alterations.

• Coordinate proposed projects with Park cultural resource

manager and SHPO on a case-by-case basis to confrm

projects are completed in accordance with the Secretary

of Interior Standards for the Treatment of Historic

Properties.

CHARACTER-DEFINING FEATURES 

Building Exterior 

• Rectangular Massing

• One-Story

• Front-Gable Roof with Exposed Log Purlins and Rafters

• Board-Formed Concrete Stem Wall

• “NPS Brown” Color Scheme

• Pairs of Eight-light Wood Sash Windows

• Vertical Wood Plank Door
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Figure 59. Building 107, view to the northwest, 2014 (NPS Alaska Regional Offce Files) 
HEADQUARTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT: BOUNDARY EXPANSION (1950-1961)

Front-gable roof with 

exposed log purlins 

and rafters 

Black rolled roofng 

Saddle notched 

log 

Board-formed 

concrete stem wall Eight-light 

windows, paired 

Figure 60. Building 107, South Elevation, Historic American Building Survey, National Park Service, W. Vandeventer and Dave Snow, 1986 (NPS Alaska Regional Offce Files) 

165 
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167 

 

BUILDING 110: 

ELECTRIC LIGHT PLANT 

1930 
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168 

Figure 61. View of headquarters with Building 110 in lower left, 1932 (DENA 3-34, Denali National Park and Preserve Museum Collection) 
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169 

GENERAL DESCRIPTION 

Building 110 is a single-story, single room, gable front, log construction built in 1930 as electrical utility building. It has a 

wood shake roof and a poured concrete foundation. Excluding its 

fared, saddle-notched log crowns, the building measures 14.4 by 

10 feet. Facing west, the building contains remnants of a 6.3-foot– 

high by 8-foot-wide garage door opening, which has been inflled 

with modern materials: a wood paneled door with nine lights 

and wood board-and-batten sheathing. Fenestration is regular, 

with a paired wood 8-sash casement windows on its north and 

south elevations. When the roof life cycle expires, the roof is to 

be replaced with rolled corrugated galvanized metal roofng. The 

building retains high historic integrity in location, setting, design, 

materials, workmanship, feeling, and association. 

General Recommendations: 

• Develop and adhere to a cyclic maintenance plan,

including:

o Annual inspections of the foundation, siding,

windows, doors, fnishing, and roof material.

o Cleaning and repainting on a 7-year basis.

• Retain character-defning features.

• Conduct repairs in-kind.

• Avoid exterior alterations.

• Coordinate proposed projects with Park cultural resource

manager and SHPO on a case-by-case basis to confrm

projects are completed in accordance with the Secretary

of Interior Standards for the Treatment of Historic

Properties.

CHARACTER-DEFINING FEATURES 

Building Exterior 

• Rectangular Massing

• Moderately Pitched, Front-Gabled Roof

• Log Construction

• Flared Saddle-Notched Log Crowns

• “NPS Brown” Color Scheme

• Wood 8-Pane Casement Windows
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Figure 62. Building 110, view to the northwest, 2014 (NPS Alaska Regional Offce Files) 
HEADQUARTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT: BOUNDARY EXPANSION (1950-1961)

Front-gable roof with 

exposed log purlins 

Eight-light 

casement windows, paired 

Flared 

saddle notched log 

Figure 63. Building 110, North Elevation, Historic American Building Survey, National Park Service, W. Vandeventer and Dave Snow, 1986 (NPS Alaska Regional Offce Files) 

171 
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173

 BUILDING 111: 

SUPERINTENDENT’S GARAGE 

1939 
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174 

Figure 64. Building 111 (Superintendent's Garage), view to the north, Catalog No. DENA 21493, 1939 (Denali National Park and Preserve Museum Collection Archives) 
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175 

GENERAL DESCRIPTION 

Building 111 is a single-story, “L”-shaped, gable-ended, log construction was built in 1939 by the Civilian Conservation 

Corps as the park superintendent’s garage. This structure has 

been modifed from a garage to an administrative ofce and then 

to a residence. It has a cedar shake roof, a stone veneer watertable, 

a poured concrete foundation and is nestled into the hillside. 

Excluding its fared, saddle-notched log crowns and exposed 

purlins, the building measures 24.5 by 33.5 feet. Rafters and purlins 

are exposed at the eaves and gable ends. A shed roofed arctic 

entry facing south. The building retains high historic integrity in 

location, setting, design, materials, workmanship, feeling, and 

association. 

General Recommendations: 

• Develop and adhere to a cyclic maintenance plan,

including:

o Annual inspections of the foundation, siding,

windows, doors, fnishing, and roof material.

o Cleaning and repainting on a 7-year basis.

• Retain character-defning features.

• Conduct repairs in-kind.

• Avoid exterior alterations.

• Coordinate proposed projects with Park cultural resource

manager and SHPO on a case-by-case basis to confrm

projects are completed in accordance with the Secretary

of Interior Standards for the Treatment of Historic

Properties.

CHARACTER-DEFINING FEATURES 

Building Exterior 

• L-Shaped

• Stone Veneer Watertable

• Log Construction

• Saddle-Notched Log Crowns

• Exposed Rafters and Purlins

• “NPS Brown” Color Scheme

• Wood Shake Roof
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Figure 65. Building 111, view to the north, 2014 (NPS Alaska Regional Offce Files). 
HEADQUARTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT: BOUNDARY EXPANSION (1950-1961)

Exposed log 

purlins and rafters 

Saddle notched log 

L-shaped

Stone veneer watertable 

Figure 66. Building 111, South Elevation, Historic American Building Survey, National Park Service, W. Vandeventer and Dave Snow, 1986 (NPS Alaska Regional Offce Files) 

177 
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179 

BUILDING 112: 

COMFORT STATION 

1931 
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Figure 67. View northwest of the comfort station (Building 112) during construction in 1932(DENA-69-3-43, Harpers Ferry Center) 
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181 

GENERAL DESCRIPTION 

Building 112 was designed by the National Park Service and constructed by park personnel in 1931/1932. This 10’ x 23’ 

one-story log frame building is designed in the same style as the 

dog barn with an exposed structural log frame and reversed boardand-batten. This log frame is set on a concrete foundation. The 

front-gable roof is currently covered with cedar shingles. When 

the life-cycle of this roof expires, the roof will be black rolled 

roofng. The small glass louvered windows have been replaced 

with a clerestory of fxed single pane lights. Doors are vertical 

plank with no windows. Concrete foundation poured under entire 

building and board-and-batten addition on north wall were added 

to the building in 1985-86. 

The building retains high historic integrity in location, setting, 

design, materials, workmanship, feeling, and association. 

General Recommendations: 

• Develop and adhere to a cyclic maintenance plan,

including:

o Annual inspections of the foundation, siding,

windows, doors, fnishing, and roof material.

o Cleaning and repainting on a 7-year basis.

• Retain character-defning features.

• Conduct repairs in-kind.

• Avoid exterior alterations.

• Coordinate proposed projects with Park cultural resource

manager and SHPO on a case-by-case basis to confrm

projects are completed in accordance with the Secretary

of Interior Standards for the Treatment of Historic

Properties.

CHARACTER-DEFINING FEATURES 

Building Exterior 

• Rectangular Massing

• Exposed Structural Log Frame

• Reversed Board-and-Batten

• Front Gable Roof

• “NPS Brown” Color Scheme
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Figure 68. Building 112, view to the northwest, 2014 (NPS Alaska Regional Offce Files) 
HEADQUARTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT: BOUNDARY EXPANSION (1950-1961)

with exposed 

log purlins 

Exposed Vertical board-and-batten 

Front gable 

log frame 

Figure 69. Building 112, East Elevation, Historic American Building Survey, National Park Service, W. Vandevener and Dave Snow, 1986 (NPS Alaska Regional Offce Files) 

183 
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185 

7 Design Standards 

The NHPA of 1966 delegated the United States Department 

of Interior (DOI) as the agency responsible for administering 

the nation’s preservation policy, including the advisement of all 

federal agencies on the treatment of historic properties. In order 

to facilitate the preservation process, the DOI developed the 

Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic 

Properties (Standards), which grew out of the NPS Grants-inAid Program of 1971 and the Federal Historic Preservation Tax 

Incentives Program of 1976. Over the years, the Standards were 

revised several times, with the most recent revision made in 2011 

to include a chapter on “Energy Conservation.” 

Developed to ensure the long-term preservation of historic 

properties (districts, buildings, structures, sites, and objects 

listed on or eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic 

Places), the Standards aim to retain a property’s integrity of 

historic location, design, setting, materials, workmanship, feeling, 

and association and apply to a property’s exterior, interior, 

additions, new construction, landscape features, infrastructure 

(roads, parking lots, lighting, etc.), and use. 

The four approved treatments addressed in the Standards are 

preservation, rehabilitation, restoration, and reconstruction. To 

determine which type of treatment to apply to a historic property, 

one must consider the resource’s current physical condition, 

proposed use, and/or the existing historical documentation 

quality. 

In general, it is recommended that preservation and/or 

rehabilitation treatments are applied to resources within the 

Mount McKinley Park Headquarters Historic District; however, 

NPS cultural resource managers may recommend that Building 

No. 22 be treated under restoration. 

The following sections describe each of the four treatments of 

historic properties in detail. 
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186 

7.1 Preservation Standards 

The treatment of Preservation is considered an appropriate treatment if a building retains distinctive historic materials and features without 

the need of major repair; there is no need to depict a specifc period of the building’s past; and when additions or alterations are not required. 

The treatment of Preservation is the act or process of applying measures necessary to sustain the existing form, integrity, and materials of an 

historic property. The Standards for Preservation pertain to the protection and stabilization of the property through maintenance and repair 

of historic materials and features. The extensive replacement or new construction of a feature, including new exterior additions, are not 

appropriate measures for this treatment. Upgrading of mechanical, electrical, plumbing and other building code requirements are permitted 

if sensitive to the historic character of the property. 

The eight Preservation Standards: 

1. A property will be used as it was historically, or be given a 5. Materials, features, fnishes, and construction techniques or 

new use that maximizes the retention of distinctive materials, examples of craftsmanship that characterize a property will be 

features, spaces, and spatial relationships. Where a treatment preserved. 

and use have not been identifed, a property will be protected 

and, if necessary, stabilized until additional work may be 6. The existing condition of historic features will be evaluated 

undertaken. to determine the appropriate level of intervention needed. 

Where the severity of deterioration requires repair or limited 

2. The historic character of a property will be retained and replacement of a distinctive feature, the new material will 

preserved. The replacement of intact or repairable historic match the old in composition, design, color, and texture. 

materials or alteration of features, spaces, and spatial 

relationships that characterize a property will be avoided. 7. Chemical or physical treatments, if appropriate, will be 

undertaken using the gentlest means possible. Treatments that 

3. Each property will be recognized as a physical record of its cause damage to historic materials will not be used. 

time, place, and use. Work needed to stabilize, consolidate, 

and conserve existing historic materials and features will be 8. Archeological resources will be protected and preserved in 

physically and visually compatible, identifable upon close place. If such resources must be disturbed, mitigation measures 

inspection, and properly documented for future research. will be undertaken. 

4. Changes to a property that have acquired historic signifcance 

in their own right will be retained and preserved. 
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7.2 Rehabilitation Standards 

Rehabilitation is considered an appropriate treatment if major repairs or replacement of historic material and features is necessary; when 

a new use requires alteration to the exterior or interior and/or exterior additions; and when there is no need to depict a specifc period of 

the building’s past. The treatment of Rehabilitation is the act or process of making possible a compatible use for a property through repair, 

alterations, and additions while preserving those portions or features which convey its historical, cultural, or architectural values. Interior 

and exterior alterations sensible to the historic character of a property are acceptable measures under this treatment. 

The ten Rehabilitation Standards: 

replacement of a distinctive feature, the new feature will match 

1. A property will be used as it was historically or be given a new the old in design, color, texture, and where possible, materials. 

use that requires minimal changes to its distinctive materials, Replacement of missing features will be substantiated by 

features, spaces, and spatial relationships. documentary and physical evidence. 

2. The historic character of a property will be retained and 7. Chemical or physical treatments, if appropriate, will be

preserved. The removal of distinctive materials or alteration of undertaken using the gentlest means possible. Treatments that

features, spaces, and spatial relationships that characterize a cause damage to historic materials will not be used.

property will be avoided.

8. Archeological resources will be protected and preserved in place.

3. Each property will be recognized as a physical record of its time, If such resources must be disturbed, mitigation will be undertaken. 

place, and use. Changes that create a false sense of historical

development, such as adding conjectural features or elements 9. New additions, exterior alterations, or related new from other historic properties, will not be undertaken. construction will not destroy historic materials, features, and

spatial relationships that characterize the property. New work

4. Changes to a property that have acquired historic signifcance shall be diferentiated from the old and will be compatible

in their own right will be retained and preserved. with the historic materials, features, size, scale and proportion,

and massing to protect the integrity of the property and its

environment. 5. Distinctive features, fnishes, and construction techniques or

examples of craftsmanship that characterize a property will be

preserved. 10. New additions and adjacent or related new construction will

be undertaken in such a manner that, if removed in the future,

the essential form and integrity of the historic property and its 6. Deteriorated historic features will be repaired rather than environment would be unimpaired. replaced. Where the severity of deterioration requires
Design Guidelines: Mt McKinley National Park

188 

7.3 Restoration Standards 

The treatment of Restoration is the act or process of accurately depicting the form, features, and character of a property as it appeared at a 

particular period of time by means of the removal of features from other periods in its history and reconstruction of missing features from the 

restoration period. The Standards for Restoration pertain primarily to the removal of features from other periods in a property’s history and 

the reconstruction of missing features from the restoration period based on documentary and physical evidence. In addition, upgrading of 

mechanical, electrical, plumbing and other building code requirements are permitted if sensitive to the historic character of the property. The 

treatment is usually utilized for buildings when it is desired to interpret their historical signifcance and character from a certain time period. 

The 11 Restoration Standards: 

1. A property will be used as it was historically or be given a new 6. Deteriorated features from the restoration period will be

use which refects the property’s restoration period. repaired rather than replaced.

2. Materials and features from the restoration period will be 7. Where the severity of deterioration requires replacement of a

retained and preserved. The removal of materials or alteration distinctive feature, the new feature will match the old in design, 

of features, spaces, and spatial relationships that characterize color, texture, and, where possible, materials.

the period will not be undertaken.

8. Replacement of missing features from the restoration period

3. Each property will be recognized as a physical record of its will be substantiated by documentary and physical evidence. A 

time, place, and use. Work needed to stabilize, consolidate, false sense of history will not be created by adding conjectural

and conserve materials and features from the restoration features, features from other properties, or by combing

period will be physically and visually compatible, identifable features that never existed together historically.

upon close inspection, and property documented for future

research. 9. Chemical or physical treatments, if appropriate, will be

undertaken using the gentlest means possible. Treatments that

4. Materials, features, spaces, and fnishes that characterize other cause damage to historic materials will not be used.

historical periods will be documented prior to their alteration

or removal. 10. Archeological resources afected by a project will be protected

and preserved in place. If such resources must be disturbed,

5. Distinctive materials, features, fnishes and construction mitigation measures will be undertaken.

techniques, or examples of craftsmanship that characterize

the restoration period will be preserved. 11. Designs that were never executed historically will not be

constructed.
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7.4 Reconstruction Standards 

The treatment of Reconstruction is not a recommended treatment option for the Mount McKinley Park Headquarters Historic District. 

The treatment of Reconstruction is the act or process of depicting by means of new construction, the form, features and detailing of a nonsurviving site, landscape, building, structure, or object for the purpose of replicating its appearance at a specifc period of time and in its 

historic location. The standards associated with this treatment pertain to the new construction of features of a historic property supported 

by documentary and physical evidence. 

If in the future reconstruction is determined to be the appropriate treatment, the following six standards should be followed: 

1. Reconstruction will be used to depict vanished or nonsurviving portions of a property when documentary

and physical evidence is available to permit accurate

reconstruction with minimal conjecture, and such

reconstruction is essential to the public understanding of

the property.

2. Reconstruction of a landscape, building, structure,

or object in its historic location will be preceded by a

thorough archaeological investigation to identify and

evaluate those features and artifacts which are essential

to an accurate reconstruction. If such resources must be

disturbed, mitigation measures will be undertaken.

3. Reconstruction will include measures to preserve

any remaining historic materials features, and spatial

relationships.

4. Reconstruction will be based on the accurate duplication

of historic features and elements substantiated by

documentary or physical evidence rather than on

conjectural designs or the availability of diferent features

from other historic properties. A reconstructed property

will re-create the appearance of the non-surviving historic

property in materials, design, color and texture.

5. A reconstruction will be clearly identifed as a contemporary 

recreation.

Designs that were never executed historically will not be constructed. 
Design Guidelines: Mt McKinley National Park

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HEADQUARTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT: BOUNDARY EXPANSION (1950-1961)

191 

8 OVERVIEW: MOUNT MCKINLEY NATIONAL 

 PARK HEADQUARTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT 
Design Guidelines: Mt McKinley National Park

192 

 

Denali National Park and Preserve is located 240 miles north of 

Anchorage, Alaska. The original historic district, which bears the 

park’s original name, is located within the headquarters area at 

Milepost 3.4 on the south side of the Denali Park Road, a 92-milelong road that serves as the only paved access to the interior of the 

national park. This area is generally known as the “frontcountry,” 

or the developed area of the park, containing structures (roads, 

bridges, etc.) that are necessary for access and protection of the 

park’s undeveloped or “backcountry” wilderness areas. The 

headquarters area consists of a mix of administrative, visitor, 

maintenance and residential functions, with the former two 

concentrated on the west side of the development and the latter 

two on the east side. 

The architecture of Mount McKinley National Park Headquarters 

District is the product of two divergent design philosophies. 

Prior to World War II, building design was more sensitive to the 

immediate site and the fragile natural environment in which it 

sits, incorporating natural elements such as logs which visually 

connected the buildings to the site. After the war, a new design 

philosophy based on clean lines and practicality took hold. 

The original Mount McKinley National Park Headquarters 

District, referred to in this document as the “Original Core 

Historic District,” (or “Original Core”) was established in 1987. It 

was found to be 

signifcant at the state level for its strong association with National 

Park Service (NPS) Rustic Architecture along with the park 

administrative development. This district is also associated with the 

Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), who contributed to early tomid-twentieth-century conservation and recreation movements 

in Alaska. The original period of signifcance for the district is 

1926-1941, encompassing the early years of park headquarters 

development, as built by the CCC and park staf under the direction 

of Superintendent Harry Karstens.12 The design, construction 

materials, and siting of buildings in the Original Core represent an 

early example of the NPS philosophy of rustic style architecture 

from its zenith to the last period of expression. The headquarters 

area expanded according to detailed plans provided by the NPS 

Branch of Plans and Design. 

The character of the Original Core Historic District, as well as its 

physical appearance, shows minimal alteration from the period of 

signifcance, 1926-1941. As a whole, the district retains the physical 

characteristics it possessed during its period of signifcance, and 

visually conveys its association with signifcant historical patterns. 

The National Register nomination was approved by the Keeper 

on October 23, 1987. Alaska State Historic Preservation Ofce 

(SHPO) concurrence for the Park Headquarters Historic District 

Cultural Landscape Inventory was received on September 21, 

2004. 

The headquarters area expansion of the mid-twentieth century 

extends the period of signifcance for the district to include 1950-

1961, the years of post-World War II and Mission 66 development. 

It also increases the boundaries of the district to include buildings 

constructed during this time period. 

Like the Original Core, ”Boundary Increase” (as it is referred 

to throughout this document) is signifcant for its association 

with the continued development at park headquarters, which 

12 National Register of Historic Places, Mount McKinley National Park 

Headquarters District, Denali National Park and Preserve, Denali Borough, Alaska, 

National Register #87000975, Section 8 (Washington D.C., National Park Service, 

1987).
HEADQUARTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT: BOUNDARY EXPANSION (1950-1961)

193 

fulflled early development plans made by Superintendent Harry 

Karstens, landscape architect Thomas Vint, and Mount McKinley 

National Park staf. With the incorporation of the mid-century 

development, the headquarters area became divided (physically 

and functionally): the westernmost end was designated for 

administration purposes and the easternmost end was assigned 

for residential use, with a focus on single family housing and 

modernized amenities. The Boundary Increase is also signifcance 

for its association with the Mission 66 program, a nationwide NPS 

development initiative which ofcially took place between 1956 

and 1966. Mission 66 brought improvements to the residential 

area of headquarters, completely changing the use and trafc 

patterns in the area. 

Boundary Increase No. 1 is signifcant in the area of architecture, 

as its buildings, particularly its residences, exemplify the transition 

to a new modern style of architecture adopted by the NPS 

during the postwar period and subsequent Mission 66 program. 

Dubbed “Park Service Modern” by scholars Ethan Carr and Sarah 

Allaback, the style grew out of the principles of earlier rustic park 

architecture, infuenced by the International style and modernism 

prevalent during the 1950s and 1960s. The “Doty Houses” are 

excellent examples of this transitional style, while buildings 

constructed between 1958 and 1961 are modest, but mature, 

examples of “Park Service Modern” architecture.13 

8.1 Original Core Historic District (1926-1941) 

The National Park Service’s 1918 statement of policy called for 

careful planning before undertaking the design and construction 

of new park facilities. Until 1941, plans for national park 

development incorporated native materials and architectural 

designs with the intention to blend facilities with the terrain and 

to harmonize with local building conventions which provided a 

standard in the planning and development of park facilities. In 

national parks throughout the United States, this approach led 

to the adoption of a so-called “rustic style” of park architecture 

until the nation’s 1941 entry into World War II.14 It was “based 

on a canny combination of pioneer building skills and techniques, 

principles of the Arts and Crafts movement, and the premise of 

harmony with the landscape”15 

Prior to 1928, Superintendent Karstens guided headquarters 

development, and building construction was forced to rely on 

the availability of salvaged lumber from the former headquarters 

buildings at Riley Creek and various abandoned railroad camp 

buildings. Early headquarters building materials included 

log, wood frame, and canvas. While prior to 1928, buildings 

were primarily constructed of logs—no source has been 

found indicating that Superintendent Karstens limited himself 

exclusively to logs as building materials or to any particular design 

style. Out of practicality, Karstens used materials that were most 

widely available for construction.16 The original Superintendent’s 

Ofce (Building No. 22), constructed in 1926, is all that remains 

from this building era of the headquarters district. 

In February 1928, Karstens met with NPS Chief Landscape 

Engineer Thomas Vint at the Superintendent’s Conference in San 

Francisco. The two men discussed headquarters development. 

13 Doty was the architect who designed the residences. He was associated with 

the NPS’s Mission 66 program in the mid-20th century. The program mixed rustic 

and modern elements as the NPS transitioned to a new style of building. 

14 National Park Service, Cultural Landscape Report (hereafter CLR), Park 

Headquarters, Denali National Park and Preserve, 2008, pp. 26.

15 United States Department of Agriculture, The Built Environment Image Guide 

for the National Forests and Grasslands (Washington D.C: United States Forest 

Service, 2001).

16 CLR, pp. 26-27.
Design Guidelines: Mt McKinley National Park

194 

Immediately following the conference, Vint prepared drawings of 

the three new buildings proposed for headquarters, and a “free hand 

sketch” layout plan for the headquarters based on a photograph of 

the area and information provided by Karstens.17 Prior to returning 

to the park, Karstens met with Vint and approved the plan, which 

specifed locations for the rangers’ quarters (no longer extant), 

warehouse (Building No. 101), and barn (Building No. 106).18 

Recognizing the importance of a master plan for the headquarters 

area, both Karstens and Vint requested additional design services. 

In his monthly report, dated March 1928, to Park Service Director 

Stephen Mather, Karstens stated: 

This park has reached a period in its development 

where the services of the landscape engineer are 

very necessary... All future development about 

headquarters will be infuenced by the proper 

placing of these buildings and the space reserved 

for future construction. This matter has been taken 

up with the Service in a letter dated March 29th 

recommending assistance from the Landscape 

Division.19 

Vint echoed Karsten’s justifcation in his own letter to Director 

Mather: 

While Mt. McKinley is but a small building 

program this year, it is one of supreme importance 

from the landscape view-point, as the locations 

selected for these buildings practically determines 

the location of all future buildings constructed at 

park headquarters. I believe these problems are of 

sufcient importance in the development of Mt 

McKinley Park to warrant a trip by some member 

of the Landscape Division.20 

A month later, Associate NPS Director Arno B. Cammerer 

approved Vint’s “free hand sketch” layout plan; however, he did 

not approve a trip by a member of the Landscape Division to the 

park. He explained the division was too busy and there were not 

enough funds, and further justifying his decision he wrote, “surely 

the plan of construction at Mt. McKinley Park is not of such major 

proportions but that if slight errors are made in location they can 

be corrected at some future time.”21 

Despite the lack of immediate on-site assistance from a member 

of the Landscape Division, beginning in 1928 all building plans 

for the headquarters area were created by the Landscape 

Division (later known as the Branch of Plans and Designs) in San 

Francisco, ensuring adherence to the approved ‘rustic style’ for 

the headquarters area. Further evidence of a frm commitment to 

a consistent architectural style is found in a letter written by Acting 

Director Arno B. Cammerer in 1929, where he directs that the 

park should not accept a cast-of building ofered by the Alaska 

Railroad for use as a superintendent’s residence, explaining that 

the free building “might not ft in with the type of architecture 

approved for headquarters at McKinley Park.”22 He further states, 

17 CLR, pp. 27.

18 Karstens to NPS Director, March 29, 1928, NARA College Park, RG 79, Box 1412 

E7, Folder 620; Thos. C. Vint to NPS Director, March 10, 1928, NARA College Park, 

RG 79, Box 1412 E7, Folder 620.

19 SMR, March 1928, as quoted in the notes of Historian Frank Norris, Alaska 

Regional Office, Anchorage, AK.

20 Thomas C. Vint to NPS Director, March 10, 1928, NARA College Park, RG 79, Box 

1412 E7, Folder 620.

21 Assistant NPS Director Arno B. Cammerer to Thomas C. Vint, Chief Landscape 

Engineer, April 14, 1928 NARA College Park, RG 79, Box 1412 E7, Folder 620.

22 Acting NPS Director Arno B. Cammerer to Harry J. I, December 20, 1928, NARA 

College Park, RG 79, Box 6 E17.
HEADQUARTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT: BOUNDARY EXPANSION (1950-1961)

195 

 

 

“it might be better to go ahead with our plans for the construction 

of [the superintendent’s residence] in harmony with the park 

location and following our own designs.” 

While not directly stated in documents reviewed, the construction 

of only log buildings, or buildings with log exterior trim, between 

1928 and 1937 indicates log was the headquarters preferred 

building style except for a few minor structures. 

8.1.1 NPS Rustic Architecture 

In exterior design, materials, and siting the ensemble of 

Headquarters buildings clearly exhibits tenets of the rustic style 

adopted and fully developed by the National Park Service between 

1916 and the early 1940s. Refecting the National Park Service 

attempts to design and construct buildings that harmonized with 

the surrounding environment and used local building traditions, 

the majority of Headquarters buildings utilize materials and 

techniques indigenous to interior Alaska. Logs were used 

predominantly to construct the exterior walls of Headquarters 

buildings. When suitable logs were unavailable, rough-sawn or 

machine rounded planks (simulating logs) were used on building 

exteriors, either alone or in combination with the log framing, to 

create a rustic efect. 

Design details such as saddle corner notching and exposed roof 

rafters and purlins contribute further to the rustic appearance 

of Headquarters buildings. At the same time, certain building 

techniques reveal awareness of local craft traditions practiced by 

miners and hunters in the region. 

Headquarters buildings are relatively small in scale. Buildings 

rarely exceed 40 feet in width and most are no more than one and 

one-half stories in height. 

Finally, the rustic philosophy of nonintrusive building is evident 

in the overall spatial distribution and siting of buildings and roads 

in the Headquarters Historic District. Beginning in the early 

1930s when National Park Service landscape architects became 

increasingly involved in the planning of Headquarters, it appears 

that an efort was made to minimize the impact of built features 

on the landscape. Excluding the tight concentration of buildings 

at the hub of the District, buildings are separated by considerable 

distances and surrounded by undisturbed stands of trees. Only 

native plant materials border buildings and walkways. Roads in the 

district are narrow and often follow the natural contour of the land. 

NPS Rustic style buildings were designed to blend with their natural 

setting, using materials and colors found in the landscape. Buildings 

that are associated with the Rustic style may display individuality but 

include several similar characteristics. They often included adherence 

to a comprehensive plan; deference to the natural environment; and 

careful siting to develop strong visual ties with the surrounding setting, 

especially orientation to views. The physical characteristics of such 

architecture included natural materials and expression of texture, 

such as natural wood siding; wood-shingled roofs; heavily rusticated 

or boulder masonry; and peeled-log walls, columns, and trusses. 

Rustic buildings also often display hand craftsmanship, are small in 

size, and incorporate historical details.23 

8.1.1.1 Character Defning Features of NPS Rustic Architecture 

• Break up straight lines with texture.

• To achieve a sense of unity all structures in a

particular park would be of one style, with limited

construction methods and limited variety of

materials.

23 National Park Service, A Sense of Place, Design Guidelines for Yosemite 

National Park, Yosemite National Park , 2011, pp 47.
Design Guidelines: Mt McKinley National Park

196 

• Structural members should be scaled to the

surroundings.

• The building was to refect the vernacular of the

area’s building traditions.

• Horizontal lines and silhouettes are preferable to

verticality. Structures are to avoid rigid, straight

lines and convey the impression of having been

constructed by pioneer craftsman with limited

hand tools even though modern methods of

construction are used.

• Native materials are preferred.

• The structure’s design should be in harmony with

nature.

• Blend color, scale and texture.

8.2 Boundary Increase for the Historic District: 1950-1961 

The Boundary Increase is important to the story of the 

development of the Mount McKinley National Park Headquarters 

District as it illustrates the continuation and evolution of the NPS 

design philosophy and mid-20th century planning goals including 

Mission 66 initiatives. The boundary increase encompasses the 

entirety of the headquarters residential area, highlighting buildings 

constructed between 1950 and 1961. 

At the beginning of the 1950s the construction of the “Doty 

Houses” and the Residential Loop Road set a precedent 

for permanent housing development on the east side of 

headquarters. These changes, based on planning which had 

begun in the 1940s, formed the internal planning pattern of 

park headquarters in a way that continues to shape land use 

within the area today. More broadly, the types of resources 

represented in the district expansion are also representative of 

the continuation and evolution of the NPS design philosophy 

and mid-20th century planning goals. 

Mission 66 was a transformative program for the National Park 

System and the residential development at park headquarters is 

a small but important part of the many changes that took place in 

Mount McKinley National Park during this period to accommodate 

increased visitation by expanding the operating capacity of the 

park. Buildings 51 and Building 217 are representative of the 

continued refning of residential planning at park headquarters, 

taking in a new, more compact direction that better suited the 

needs of the park for more housing during Mission 66. The Boiler 

House represents the evolution of amenities at headquarters 

through the modernization of utility services. 

The four “DotyHouses” are further signifcant for their transformative 

architectural style. They are excellent representative examples of 

the type of single dwelling ranch housing that became the standard 

for NPS employees and their families in the 1940s and 1950s. The 

residences, designed by architect, Cecil Doty, who would later be a 

very prolifc designer during the Mission 66 program stylistically have 

a mix of rustic and modern elements and are representative of the 

transition NPS was making away from its trademark “Park Service 

Rustic” style to a new “Park Service Modern” style. 

Though the “Park Service Modern” style has yet to be ofcially 

recognized within the realm of architectural history, the growing 

body of literature concerning the “modernization” of architecture 

within the NPS in the 1940s and 1950s suggests that the form and 

style of these buildings is important in the history of the National 

Park System. They were built during a fscally lean time in NPS 

history, post-World War II but before the advent of Mission 66. 

Little construction was accomplished during this period, these 
HEADQUARTERS HISTORIC DISTRICT: BOUNDARY EXPANSION (1950-1961)

197 

four buildings are rare surviving example not only of architecture 

from this period but of the transitional style NPS architects like 

Cecil Doty were experimenting with at the time. 

As a whole, this Boundary Expansion is a logical addition to the 

Mount McKinley National Park Headquarters District because 

the mid-century developments within park headquarters cannot 

be fully understood without the context of earlier development 

and vice versa. The 1987 district, encompassing the western half 

of headquarters, and the boundary expansion, representing the 

eastern half, today operate as a whole district, and the way that the 

eastern permanent housing area was developed is directly related 

to what came before. As a single, expanded district, the narrative 

of park headquarters is not fractured, and a framework is created 

to allow for easier comprehensive additions to be made to the 

district in the future. 

8.2.1 Post-World War II and Mission 66 Era Architecture 

Mission 66 is an important chapter in the developmental history of 

the national parks system and, in many ways, represents the “most 

efective means of increasing Park Service appropriations since the 

New Deal emergency spending legislation of the 1930s.”24 Beyond 

the task of restoring the National Park System, Mission 66 was a 

development program. It was not enough to repair extant buildings 

(most built during the CCC era of park construction.) New visitor 

and administration facilities were also required to accommodate 

future growth, especially in the newer and more remote park units 

that had never experienced extensive visitation before, and had 

little to no infrastructure to speak of at all. According to Ethan Carr, 

by 1966 the National Park Service would spend over $1 billion on 

land acquisition, new staf and training, general operations, and all 

types of construction activity.25 However, the philosophy of NPS 

planners was to keep the impact of new development as minimal 

as possible, either by building in already developed areas or by 

keeping new construction to the periphery of the park away from 

sensitive natural and cultural resources. 

Visitor centers were also developed to more efciently provide the 

public with information, and sidewalks, trails and viewpoints were 

built to more efectively control visitor impact on the landscape.26 

Separate park headquarters compounds were built elsewhere, 

separating administrative and visitor functions so as to facilitate 

smooth operations within the parks. Not only were the planning 

principles modern, but so was the style of the buildings, which 

had strong modernist lines. Matured from the transitional style 

of the 1940s and early 1950s, the ”Park Service Modern” style 

fully embraced modern structures and standardized plans, all 

while tempering the buildings in keeping with the surrounding 

landscape. Some of the more important building complexes 

were even designed by top fight contemporary architects such 

as Richard Neutra and Eero Saarinen. All of this created a mental 

break with past Rustic style architecture and planning, but more 

importantly allowed NPS could take advantage of the latest laborsaving technologies and materials to keep costs down. 

While Mission 66 began with enthusiastic public support, by the 

1960s growing concern over environmental issues began to make 

people questions whether the program was not overdeveloping 

the parks. Controversies over such projects as the reconstruction 

of the park road within Mount McKinley National Park stirred 

the debate over the defnition of wilderness and whether portions 

24 Ethan Carr, Elaine Jackson-Retondo, and Len Warner, “The Mission 66 Era of 

National Park Development, 1945-1972” (National Register of Historic Places 

Multiple Property Documentation Form Draft, January 2006), Section E, pp 4.

25 Carr et al., Section E, pp 4.

26 Allaback, pp. 17.
Design Guidelines: Mt McKinley National Park

198 

of the national parklands should be set aside as wilderness.27 

Tensions within the Department of the Interior also put pressure 

on the program, as the new Secretary of the Interior Stewart L. 

Udall was appointed in 1961. Udall was himself sympathetic to 

the environmental cause, and had conficting ideas with Wirth as 

to how the national parks ft into the new wilderness legislation 

passing through Congress.28 Wirth ended up stepping down as 

director of the National Park Service at the end of 1963, to be 

replaced by George B. Hartzog, Jr.29 Hartzog saw the Mission 66 

program through to the grand completion celebrations in 1966, 

and tried to use the funding momentum created by Mission 66 

to launch his own initiative entitled “PARKSCAPE, U.S.A.” to be 

completed by the yellowstone Centennial in 1972.30 The Parkscape 

program continued many aspects of the Mission 66 program that 

came before, but did not represent the same scale or level of the 

original planning for Mission 66.31 

The legacy of Mission 66 is one of long term planning and 

development that not only shaped the way the parks look today, 

but how the National Park Service manages them and how the 

public interacts with them. 

8.2.1.1 Character Defning Features of Post-World War II 

Architecture 

• Low horizontal form

• Rectilinear plan

• Low-pitch gable, or fat, broadside to the street

• Attached or associated garage for residential

27 Carr et al., Section E, pp 69.

28 The Wilderness Act became law in 1964.

29 Carr et al., Section E, pp 99.

30 Ibid., Section E, pp 106.

31 Ibid., Section E, pp 107.

• Exterior walls with varying texture

• Blend color, scale and texture.
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199