The resolution suggested that steel frames be used in any new buildings.
This resolution was adopted. It was soon learned that the new Post
Office, the Mint and the old Customs House were practically undamaged.
The branch of the United States Mint, on Fifth Street, and the new Post
Office at Seventh and Mission Streets, were striking examples of the
superiority of workmanship put into Federal buildings. The old Mint
building, surrounded by a wide space of pavement, was absolutely
unharmed. The Mint made preparations to resume business at once.
The Post Office building also was virtually undamaged by fire. The
earthquake shock did some damage to the different entrances to the
building, but the walls were left standing in good condition. President
Roosevelt also sent a message to Congress asking that $300,000 be at
once appropriated to finish the Mare Island Navy Yard, in order that
employment might be given to the many workmen who were in extreme need
of money for the necessities of life.
It was a most fortunate circumstance that the property records in the
Hall of Records were unharmed either by earthquake or fire. Endless
disputes and litigation over the questions of ownerships would
undoubtedly have otherwise impeded the work of those sincerely
anxious to repair their shattered fortunes and opened the way for the
unscrupulous to take unfair advantage of the general chaos.
But the temper of the people was such that only the boldest would have
dared to use trickery for his own ends.
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