During the late 1930s, the Works Progress Administration (WPA) allocated funds to renovate the original 1885 Fort chapel into a new post headquarters building. A two-story administration building was then built, completely surrounding the original chapel. During World War II, the interior courtroom was used by the US Department of Justice to conduct loyalty hearings for detainees at Fort Missoula and later for Army disciplinary hearings. It was purchased by the Museum from the US Forest Service in 2009 and the historic courtroom was restored.
Can you spot...
T-1 now sits on the sight of the original Fort Missoula chapel, built in 1885 with a rectory and classrooms. During the late 1930s, the Works Progress Administration (WPA) allocated funds to renovate the chapel into a new post headquarters building. This involved pouring a new concrete foundation next to the chapel, and lifting the building on to the new foundation. A two-story administration building was then built, completely surrounding the original chapel.
A courtroom was part of the new headquarters building to host disciplinary cases. A heating plant constructed in the basement, and electricity and phone lines were installed throughout the building. The courtroom was later used by the US Department of Justice to conduct loyalty hearings for Japanese citizens, and later for Army disciplinary hearings.
From 1962 to 1965 it was leased to the United States Air Force and was then used by the United States Forest Service as an equipment and development center. It was purchased by the Museum from the US Forest Service in 2009. When the historic courtroom was restored, pieces of the old chapel were discovered.
