Rep. Mike Thompson Urges U.S. Postal Service to Recognize Ukiah Post Office's Historic Significance

Congressman Mike Thompson (CA-1) today sent a letter urging the U.S. Postal Service to add the City of Ukiah's main post office to the National Register of Historic Places. Listing in the National Register would provide formal recognition of the post office's historical and architectural significance based on national standards used by every state. The designation would allow the Ukiah community to apply for preservation grants, tax credits, and other benefits to help maintain the building.

“I strongly support the Ukiah community's efforts to list this historic post office,” said Rep. Thompson. “The building's stunning architectural details, including its beautiful WPA murals, should be preserved and enjoyed for future generations. I can't think of a more deserving property to list in the National Register of Historic Places.”

“At a time when the U.S. Postal Service and other agencies are facing significant funding cuts, it's more important than ever to fight for a post office presence in Ukiah,” Rep. Thompson continued. “The main post office is important to downtown businesses and provides vital mail services to the people of our community. We can't afford to lose this historic building.”

The National Park Service's National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America's historic and archeological resources. To list a local property in the National Register, communities must submit an official nomination and application. The application is then reviewed by the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) of the state where the property is located. The SHPO can take one of several options: reject the property; ask for more information; list the property with the state only; or send the forms to the National Park Service for listing in the National Register of Historic Places. Once the National Park Service receives the forms, it conducts a similar review process.

A copy of Rep. Thompson's letter to the Federal Preservation Office is available below:

Dallan C. Wordekemper, CCIM

Federal Preservation Officer

United States Postal Service

475 L'Enfant Plaza SW, Room 6670

Washington DC 20260-1862

Dear Mr. Wordekemper:

Please find the enclosed Ukiah Main Post Office nomination to the National Register of Historic Places. Included are thoroughly researched historical facts and documentation including photographs of many of the historical features of this grand old building.

I support the community's efforts on behalf of the significance of the Ukiah post office. Of particular importance are the Works Progress Administration (WPA) murals that adorn one wall. These national treasures as well as many architectural details and historical references substantiate the importance of this building.

Thank you for your consideration and evaluation of this worthy nomination. I look forward to working with you on the progress of this application.

Sincerely,

Mike Thompson, Member of Congress

Cc: Dr. Knox Mellon, California State Historic Preservation Officer