An architectural assessment of four aviation hangars (Buildings 301 and 302, 303 and 304), Lawson Army Airfield, Fort Benning, Georgia and Alabama, was conducted by New South Associates in October, 1996 and February 1997. The primary objective of this study was to determine whether the hangars meet the criteria of eligibility for the National Register of Historic Places. The hangars were documented through a detailed examination of the interiors and exteriors and black and white photography.
The hangars represent two phases in the development of aviation facilities at Fort Benning. Constructed in 1919, Buildings 303 and 304 formed the nucleus of a small support facility that was later to become Lawson Army Airfield. During the earliest days of the camp, the hangars were used by observation squadrons assisting in Infantry School maneuvers. Eventually the tiny airfield evolved to meet the changing needs of the military rendering the hangars obsolete. Serving Fort Benning for over 75 years, Buildings 303 and 304 have remained extant as development and technology have advanced around them.
The Air Corps double hangar (Buildings 301 and 302) was constructed during Fort Benning's transition from a temporary facility to a permanent garrison. Built in 1935, the double hangar was part of improvements made to the Fort during an intensive building program prior to World War IL Constructed of concrete, steel and glass and designed using elements of the Art Deco and International styles, the hangars represented a new and "modern" military architecture.
Based on the background research and field investigations it is our opinion that the Air Corps double hangar (Buildings 301 and 302) is eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places for its architectural merit (Criterion C). Buildings 303 and 304 do not appear to be individually eligible due to extensive alterations and loss of historic fabric. However, the 1919 hangars are historically important and could be considered as contributing elements to a historic district or a multiple property nomination encompassing significant structures at Lawson Army Airfield. Fort Benning may wish to consider and evaluate the potential of such a district at some point in the future.
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