George McMath (1931-2007)
The grandson of noted Portland architect Albert E. Doyle, McMath graduated from the University of Oregon’s School of Architecture and Allied Arts in 1959. In 1962, he became a partner in the local firm Stewart and Richardson, eventually becoming a principal in that firm and its successor Allen, McMath & Hawkins. Many of Portland’s most significant building restorations were completed by this firm and the later firm of McMath, Hawkins & Dortignacq.
After the 1951 demolition of the iconic Portland Hotel, McMath began a long career focused on preserving historic buildings. He helped to create the Portland Historic Landmarks Commission, serving as its chair for ten years. He spearheaded the first broad survey of historic architecture in Portland and the adoption of the city’s first landmarks preservation ordinance. Professionally, his historic rehabilitation projects included the Pioneer Courthouse, Multnomah Falls Lodge, Barber Block, Kerr Nursery, and the Doyle designed Multnomah County Central Library. He also co-authored A Century of Portland Architecture (1967) and was a contributing editor for Space, Style, and Structure: Building in Northwest America (1974).
In later years, McMath served on the Board of Advisors for the Bosco-Milligan Foundation, during which time he donated his collection of photographic slides, along with many of his professional historic preservation-related papers. His slides, along with those taken by Jerry Bosco and Ben Milligan are the backbone of a growing Bosco-Milligan Foundation architectural photograph collection.
The George McMath Slide Collection consists of 22 boxes of images from AE Doyle’s work as well as photos taken by George. The archive is currently being digitized by AHC volunteer Shannon McLoughlin.
The AHC is looking forward to discovering what treasures are found in the archive.
Temple Beth Israel, design not chosen, AE Doyle rendering
Forestry Building completed 1905, AE Doyle rendering
Broadway Theater demolition Portland, Oregon
Woodlark Building Portland, Oregon
US Bank Building completed 1917, AE Doyle elevation drawing
