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SOCIAL SECURITY BUILDING FEDERAL WORKS AGENCY PUBLIC BUILDINGS ADMINISTRATION WASHINGTON OFFICE OF THE COMMISSIONER IN REPLYING, QUOTE THE ABOVE SUBJECT, BUILDING, AND THESE LETTERS FA July 24, 1942 Mr. Ben Shahn 1541 Colonial Terrace Arlington, Virginia Dear Ben: Reference is made to your murals in the Social Security Building. I conferred with Mr. Swensen and it was our opinion that some protection is now needed in back of the booths for the three murals which are in danger of chairs and other objects being pushed against them. It was decided to place small box-like structures with slopping tops against the wall in such a way that a view of the murals would not be obstructed but the danger of a chair bumping into the mural would be eliminated. Further, the young ladies working in the booths agreed to use every precaution to protect the murals. You have probably noticed the protection board which has been placed against the south section of the east wall where a small booth has been placed immediately adjacent to the long mural. It was felt that the other sections of the mural are relatively safe and that no further structures would be placed in the hall unless later developments prove their absolute necessity. I hope that the arrangements in question meet with your approval. You may be sure that this office is as anxious as you are to protect your work. Every good wish to you and your family. Cordially yours, Ed Rowan Edward B. Rowan Assistant Chief Section of Fine Arts