This town of Astoria originated as the oldest settlement west of the Rockies. In its downtown proudly sits the Odd Fellows Building as a center for social, cultural, and creative activity. No wonder it was the first building the community chose to rebuild in 1923 after a fire devastated the entire town. Almost a century later, three local women purchased the building and, with an incredible amount of community support, saved it from developers.
Vintage Window Restoration’s family homesteaded in Astoria around the 1870’s and Chris Gustafson was born and raised in the city. He recalls as a young boy taking classes in the great room and numerous times walking by the building. It is rewarding to be a part of my hometown’s renewal and keeping these places in good condition for future family generations to enjoy. The project was part of a National Grant Competition for Historic Restorations. Our local Odd Fellows Building was selected among a gorgeous set of buildings across the nation that were all worthy of some form of recognition.
Let’s take a look inside for the meeting room, where it is now used for performing arts and wellbeing classes such as yoga and Zumba. One challenge we had was to coordinate the work hours of the project with those that use the space for classes. Then we look west out the windows we were working on overlooking downtown Astoria.
This window style is called a Palladian Window consisting of a top half round window that leans outward secured by a chain. There are two side casements open outward with casement stay arms. The center window is fixed in position.
This next image shows the Northwest Facade. The corner was in the worse condition of the project due to the prevailing wind and rain.
Then all that was needed was the painting and now the Odd Fellows Building is adding such a beautiful appeal to our downtown Astoria.
Vintage Window Restoration is capable of helping you with your community development project in making gathering spaces safer, aesthetically appealing, and capable of letting in fresh air and regulating the inside temperature. Our services cover all aspects of window repair, restoration, and preservation. Our team is capable of matching unique molding profiles and jambs in the event new ones need to be made. If storm sash or screens are desired, we have that covered too. Contact Vintage Window Restoration for your unique project needs.