The Navajo Nation Council chambers in Window Rock, Arizona, has been designated a National Historic Landmark by the Interior Department.

The department made the announcement on September 9, 2005. But the council held its own special ceremony yesterday to dedicate a plaque in Navajo and English that recognizes the landmark designation.

The chambers was completed in 1935 and was built by Navajo construction workers using mostly local materials. The structure resembles a Navajo hogan and features designs by Navajo artists.

"In essence, the Council Chamber is a sacred place where planning, discussions, sharing of ideas and decisions are made for the future of the Navajo people," the Navajo Nation Speaker Lawrence T. Morgan's said. "The Office of the Speaker and Historic Preservation envision the rehabilitation of the Council Chamber in a manner that befits other important legislative structures such as the White House and Congress. It is a cultural resource and a sacred treasure that is owned by the Navajo Nation."

Get the Story:
Chambers declared historic landmark (The Farmington Daily Times 10/13)
Council Chamber plaque unveiled (The Gallup Independent 10/13)

Relevant Links:
Navajo Nation Council - http://www.navajonationcouncil.org