Columbia National Guard Armory - Columbia, Missouri
Posted by: 
BruceS
N 38° 57.219 W 092° 19.773
15S E 558093 N 4311846
Former national guard armory in Columbia, Missouri.
Waymark Code: WM3JFV
Location: Missouri, United States
Date Posted: 04/12/2008
Views: 54
"Initiated in 1938 and completed circa 1940, the Columbia National Guard
Armory, 701 East Ash Street, Columbia, Boone County, is significant under
Criterion C in the areas of ARCHITECTURE and ENGINEERING and under Criterion A
in the area of SOCIAL HISTORY. In the area of architecture, the Armory is
characteristic of the Art Deco architectural style, which is uncommon in
Missouri outside its major metropolitan areas. Aside from minor interior changes
the building is almost in original condition with no exterior additions or
modifications to detract from its Art Deco references. In the area of
engineering, the Armory is significant for its lamella, or diagrid, roof
construction. A combination of arch and short timber network which utilized a
number of uniform members in a gridwork pattern, the lamella system was often
used for moderate-sized, clear span buildings; the Columbia Armory is one of the
few extant examples of the technique identified in the state. In the area of
social history, the Armory reflects efforts of New Deal public works agencies to
provide essential services and facilities to communities and is also significant
as a focus of community social activities in Columbia." ~ National Register
Nomination Form
The armory is now known as the Armory Sports Center as the National Guard has moved to new facilities.