World War II Temporary Buildings These buildings were erected by the federal government during World War II to create offices for the many workers who came for new, war-related jobs. The buildings were never meant to be permanent, and were referred to by locals as "tempos." Temporary housing was constructed in front of the <a href="http://mallhistory.org/items/show/427">National Gallery of Art</a> and on the grounds of the <a href="http://mallhistory.org/items/show/36">Washington Monument</a>. There was a group of office buildings where the<a href="http://mallhistory.org/items/show/48"> National Museum of American History</a> is today, as well as by the<a href="http://mallhistory.org/items/show/23"> Reflecting Pool</a>. <a href="http://mallhistory.org/items/show/271">Some of these buildings remained until the 1970s</a>. U.S. Naval Historical Center. <a href="http://www.history.navy.mil/photos/pl-usa/pl-dc/nav-fac/mn-mun-c.htm">View original</a>. 1941 (built) 1971 (last removed) <a href="/items/browse?advanced%5B0%5D%5Belement_id%5D=38&advanced%5B0%5D%5Btype%5D=is+exactly&advanced%5B0%5D%5Bterms%5D=1920-1949">1920-1949</a>