The building is significant as an example of the application of an important architectural trend (Spanish Colonial Revival) adapted to reflect California's mission heritage in a dramatic departure from traditional military architecture. This vernacular building was the original gate house, located at the main entrance to the base in the early 1930s. It originally served as a station for gate security personnel and was the focal point of a semi-circular entrance area with formal landscaping and seating benches, which have since been removed.