This oral history interview with George A. McMath was conducted by Roberta Watts on June 28, 1978, at the Oregon Historical Society in Portland, Oregon, as part of the oral history program at the society’s research library.

In this interview, McMath discusses life and career of his grandfather, Portland architect A.E. Doyle. He briefly talks about his own career in architecture, beginning with working as an “office boy” for architect Pietro Belluschi. He describes his work with the Portland Art Commission in the 1960s to develop the Portland Historical Landmarks Commission, then speaks extensively about the activities of the commission, including surveying the city for historic landmarks, designating historic districts, and repurposing decorative cast iron from demolished buildings. He describes the city ordinances that affect renovation or demolition of buildings designated as historic landmarks. He explains why he thinks historic preservation is important, and shares his opinion of the architectural design of buildings in Portland. He closes the interview by talking about his hope that people will return to live in Portland’s city center.