strong
By Diane Steed
Standing in its commanding position overlooking the campus, the dignity of Strong Hall belies its sporadic construction.
In March 1909, ground was broken for an administration building made possible through the efforts of Professor Olin Templin, then dean of the college, and Professor W.A. Griffith, head of the department of drawing and painting.
For this, the largest building on campus, the legislature in 1910 appropriated $50,000, followed by $75,000 the next year. Plans were set for a completion date in 1916, the University's semi-centennial.
Few people realize that instead of following the original plans, Strong Hall was built backwards; that what is now the back of the building was intended as a grand front entrance.
ine building was to be done in
the classical Renaissance style. It consisted of two wings and a center section with a rotunda higher than the wings. The most striking feature of the interior was this rotunda whose measurements were to be 60 feet in diameter and four stories high. Other outstanding features were the window arrangement for maximum light and heating and ventilation of the latest type. An area newspaper even described it: "When completed, the central section will be used almost entirely for administration purposes. It will be the center of university life and is designed to meet the needs of a student body of 10,000."
The original appropriation of $125,000 for construction of the building was exhausted with the completion of the east wing in 1912. Additional funds were provided by the legislature; however, these funds covered only the building of the foundations of
the rotunda. In 1917, funds enabled the west wing to be begun and finished one year later.
Appropriations, or rather lack of them were also the cause of the changing of the original plans for the central section. Instead of an elaborate center section, more of a central connecting link was constructed. The general dimensions of the building remained about the same, but the appearance was radically altered by omitting the colonade of pillars planned for the front of the central section — that is, the "back."
This, the main entrance, was to be on the north side of the structure. It was changed to a wing 120 feet by $ 57 \frac{1}{2} $ feet which leads onto a balcony. The entrance was then placed on the opposite side and designated to be done in bronze.
It was not until 1838 that the Ad Building was renamed Frank Strong Hall after the University's former Chancellor.
And so goes the history of Strong Hall not only the construction, but its uses have changed.
SPORTS CARS ARE IN!
Spitfire Mk II
TR4A
- Get the highest performance and the lowest prices with a TRIUMPH.
- Precision repairs for most imported cars.
- Parts and accessories.
- Selected used cars at sensible prices.
1209 E. 23rd St.
VI 2-2191
Lawrence, Kansas
Made For Dancing
You could dance all night, and well might, when you wear this figure-skimming gown in stark white edged with lace. A touch of color is added by slim velvet ribbons which thread the lace around the bodice and hemline.
The dress comes in stark white only and you may choose between pink, yellow, or red velvet ribbon trim. Sizes 5-15 are available.
This lovely gown by Jr. Theme of New York, sells for $26 at the Jay Shoppe.
If you're in a dancing mood or party-bound, visit our new collection of party-looks for spring.