50 Years of USGS Headquarters Building in Reston, Virginia
July 12, 1974: National Center Officially Named
Today, July 12th, marks 50 years since the USGS headquarters in Reston, Virginia, was dedicated in 1974. This milestone turned a long-held vision into reality, creating a National Center for advancing earth science. As we celebrate this golden anniversary, we reflect on the USGS's journey from its modest beginnings in Washington, D.C., to becoming a cornerstone of scientific excellence.
Early Years
The U.S. Geological Survey, established by Congress in 1879, initially occupied modest office spaces throughout Washington, D.C. The Survey's first home was at the corner of 8th and G Streets, N.W., directly across from the Patent Office Building. In 1882, the USGS moved to the northeast pavilion of the National Museum of the Smithsonian, now known as the Arts and Industries Building. In 1917, they relocated to the Hooe Iron Building at 10th and G Streets, N.W., where they remained until moving to their next location.
Sharing Space
By 1937, the USGS was part of the newly constructed Interior Building on F Street, sharing space with other bureaus of the Department of the Interior. Space remained a persistent issue though, leading to the Survey being housed in 20 different locations across Washington, D.C. by the end of World War II.
Architecture & Science
In 1965, the US Geological Survey relocated its headquarters to a new facility in Reston, Virginia, marking a significant transition for the organization. This new building, initially known simply as the USGS National Center, lacked an official name upon the move. It wasn't until nearly a decade later that the building was formally dedicated and named.
The building, designed by the architectural firm Skidmore, Owings, and Merrill of Chicago, was a collaborative effort between their architects and USGS scientists to create a space embodying the Survey’s mission. Notably, the main tower’s eight-pointed star shape symbolizes the cardinal points of a compass.
Additionally, great care was taken to ensure the structure harmonized with the surrounding natural wooded area, which features diverse native Virginia vegetation, thereby creating a 105-acre site that provides habitat for numerous native and migratory birds, insects, and various mammals --both large and small.
Dedication Ceremony
On July 12, 1974, the USGS National Center building in Reston, Virginia was officially named the John Wesley Powell Federal Building, after the second director of the USGS. The dedication ceremony of the USGS National Center marked a significant milestone. This building was more than just a physical space; it symbolized the culmination of nearly 20 years of planning and negotiation to consolidate the Survey's activities into a single, modern facility designed to foster scientific collaboration and innovation.
During the dedication ceremony, Vincent E. McKelvey, the USGS Director at the time, highlighted the historical significance of the new building. "The completion of this fine building marks the culmination of a dream about a National Center for the Geological Survey that can be traced back to John Wesley Powell himself," McKelvey stated. He noted that Powell was the first to draw up plans for a Survey building, envisioning it as a rectangular structure near the Smithsonian. "No doubt he would be surprised to find us here, but we can be sure he would be pleased to see this expression of the vigor of the organization he helped to found," McKelvey added. McKelvey's pioneering work in mineral resource classification and his emphasis on fuel resource studies at the USGS laid the foundational principles that continue to guide the current Energy & Minerals Mission area, driving advancements in resource assessment and sustainable development.
The dedication ceremony was a festive occasion, featuring a performance by a band and speeches from notable figures, including Rogers C.B. Morton, the Secretary of the Interior at the time. Morton emphasized the critical role of minerals in the nation's future development, stating, "The task involves providing as much in terms of goods, services, homes, schools, food, and transportation as has been done in the entire history of the nation." He further highlighted the vast mineral requirements projected for the future, noting, "By the year 2000, we can expect demand for aluminum to be eight times what it is today; demand for copper will nearly quadruple; chromium use will rise 2-1/2 times; demand for phosphorus may triple; and demand for uranium can be expected to expand 15 times. Our needs for water will at least double." Morton stressed that the growing gap between consumption and domestic production necessitates a renewed focus on mineral science and technology, as well as a strategic approach to resource management.
Building's Namesake: Disabled Explorer
Born in 1834, John Wesley Powell lost his arm in the Battle of Shiloh in the Civil War. Despite his injury, he courageously returned to the war and continued to serve. After the war, he followed his childhood interest in the natural world and became a self-trained geologist. According to an article in the Smithsonian Magazine, “In 1869, Powell led a team of nine individuals on a treacherous journey down the Green and Colorado rivers, navigating through the uncharted territories of the Grand Canyon. This expedition was not only a feat of physical endurance but also a landmark in scientific discovery, as Powell meticulously documented the geological features he encountered along the way.”
Powell’s missing arm played a unique role in his public speaking. When he expressed himself emphatically, the residual limb of his right arm would move expressively, adding a compelling presence to his presentations. This movement, combined with his authoritative voice and insightful commentary, created a powerful and engaging dynamic. His ability to use his disability as an asset often captivated his audience of fellow scientists, political leaders, and the Indigenous communities he worked in.
The perception of John Wesley Powell by Indigenous leaders today is complex and multifaceted. While Powell did make significant efforts to document Native American languages and cultures, his work was conducted within the context of the broader policies towards Native Americans, which were often harmful and oppressive.
Housing Scientific Excellence
The story of the USGS and its headquarters building is one of perseverance and belief that physical space supports scientific excellence. From its early days in Washington, D.C., to its current home in Reston, Virginia, the USGS National Center has continually evolved to meet the nation's needs. The John Wesley Powell Federal Building stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of its namesake and the ongoing mission of the USGS to understand the natural world. The architectural design of the building not only reflects the strength and resilience of the Survey's mission but also provides an environment that fosters innovation and collaboration among scientists, ensuring that the USGS remains at the forefront of scientific discovery.
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