Time and Change is a weekly series highlighting the history of some of Ohio State's storied traditions.
THEN
Built in 1873, and located on the northwest corner of the Oval, University Hall became a one-stop shop for students and faculty. The building was the first completed on Ohio State’s campus, and housed all of the important functions of the University.
University Hall, 1873
25 agricultural students, the only degree program available at Ohio State at the time, attended the first class in University Hall in September, 1873 while the building was still under construction.
Student housing was located in the basement of the East wing and first floor of the building. The basement was eventually dubbed Purgatory by residents due to the conditions. The upper floors of University Hall were reserved for faculty apartments.
In addition to the classrooms, a library, museum, chapel, cafeteria, and cannons – belonging to the Army Cadets Corps – were housed in the building. Due to the limestone and brick makeup of the building, which was believed to prevent fires, the Mechanical Engineering Department found its home in University Hall as well.
The University Print Shop later moved into the basement where the first editions of the student newspaper, The Lantern, were printed. University Hall also acted as an event space for many Commencement Ceremonies and student organization rituals.
The building was closed in May of 1968 due to deteriorating structural conditions. The university originally planned to renovate a portion of the building, but in 1971, the entire structure was demolished. It was removed from the National Register of Historic Places upon its demolition.
Demolition in 1971
The new University Hall opened in 1976 and the exterior appeared to be an exact replica of the original building. The clock tower, entrance and pillars of the original structure were salvaged and integrated into the updated structure.
NOW
University Hall still stands tall on the Northwest corner of the Oval, and though serving a different purpose, remains an integral part of Ohio State’s history.
Today, University Hall is home to offices for: the College of Arts and Sciences, the Department of African American and African Studies, the Department of Classics, the Department of Philosophy, the Department of Women’s Gender and Sexuality Studies, and the Graduate School.
On the first floor of University Hall is a small museum dedicated to the history of Ohio State. There are a variety of pretty cool artifacts showcased, so if you’re into Ohio State history, I recommend checking it out.
