Navajo Nation Council Chamber is the center of government for the Navajo Nation. The landmark building, in Window Rock, Arizona, is significant for its association with the change in Federal policy for relations with Native Americans in the 1930s New Deal, as established in the Indian Reorganization Act. With its red sandstone façade and overall rustic architectural style, the chamber was designed to harmonize with its spectacular natural surroundings. Built from 1934 to 1935, the chamber’s octagon shape and structural framework are meant to evoke a monumental hogan, the traditional building form of the Navajo people. Additionally, the building incorporates the Navajo ceremonial features of an east-facing main entrance and a windowless north wall. A mural cycle depicting “The History and Progress of the Navajo Nation,” by Navajo artist Gerald Nailor, Sr., decorates the interior. [3]
Navajo Nation Council Chamber | |
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  | |
| Location | Window Rock, Arizona |
|---|---|
| Area | 1.6 acres (6,500 m2) |
| Built | 1934 |
| Architect | Mayers, Murray and Phillip (Goodhue); Navajo Craftsman |
| Architectural style | Pueblo Revival, rustic |
| NRHP reference No. | 04001155 |
| Significant dates | |
| Added to NRHP | August 18, 2004[1] |
| Designated NHL | August 18, 2004[2] |
The building was declared a National Historic Landmark in 2004. [2][4]
Gallery
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Interior, Navajo Nation Council Chamber -
Plaque commemorating National Historic Landmark designation, inscribed in English and Navajo
References
- ^ "National Register Information System". National Register of Historic Places. National Park Service. January 23, 2007.
- ^ a b "Navajo Nation Council Chamber". National Historic Landmark summary listing. National Park Service. Retrieved 2007-09-27.
- ^ Navajo Nation Council Chamber, at National Park Service. This article incorporates public domain text from this US government website.
- ^ Nation.pdf National Historic Landmark Nomination, 2004 at National Park Service
External links
Media related to Navajo Nation Council Chamber at Wikimedia Commons