Constructed almost twenty years before Alaska became the forty-ninth state, the Federal Building in Anchorage symbolized the U.S. government's commitment to the economic growth and development of the territory.

Gilbert Stanley Underwood (1890–1961) designed the original 1939–1940 building and the 1940–1941 west wing addition under the guidance of the Office of the Supervising Architect of the Treasury.

The 1958 courtyard in-fill, a contemporary metal-clad design by Edwin Butler Crittenden, housed the Third District Court.

[2] The building served as an early symbol of the federal government to Alaskans, giving them confidence in their acceptance as part of the United States.

During celebrations of statehood in 1958, a huge American flag with forty-nine stars literally covered the facade of the building.

Before completion of the building in 1940, it became clear that it would not be large enough to accommodate all of the federal agencies in Anchorage, so construction began immediately on the first addition.

Although they have undergone several alterations, the original facade and both wings of the building retain a significant degree of architectural integrity.

The east and west ends of the south elevation, above the main entry doors, are topped by three-story penthouses.

[2] The interior of the building features many original noteworthy elements, yet displays the same lack of embellishment evident on the exterior.

The stairwells also retain original steel newel posts, wrought iron balusters, and stained wood handrails.