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The Townsend Hotel is a five story structure at the core of the Casper business district important both for its historic association with the oil industry and for its unique architectural character. Since its construction in 1923, the Townsend has been a focal point in the business district and a hub of social and political life in Casper. The concrete structure, along with brick and cast stone facade, and marble, ornate brass and plaster moldings is a rare example of the technology, craftsmanship and architectural expression of the period. In 1923 Charles H. Townsend, an original Casper pioneer, banker and businessman, contracted Barbutt, Weidner and Sweeney architects to design the hotel with the finest dining, meeting and dancing facilities in the area. Its construction was directly related to energy exploitation, which has long been a significant contributor to the broad patterns of Wyoming and United States economic and political history. The Townsend was Casper's favorite place for concerts by popular local artists, gala dances, fine dining, service club meetings, and political rallies. It was also a base operation for visiting journalists and dignitaries, and was used by the commissioned officers and USO during World War II.