Old Main

Old Main, the crown jewel of the University of Arkansas campus in Fayetteville, is a testament to the enduring legacy of higher education in the state. This iconic structure, with its stately presence and rich history, has been a beacon of learning and tradition since its construction in the late 19th century. As you approach Old Main, you are immediately struck by its grandeur and the sense of history that permeates its walls.

The History of Old Main

The story of Old Main begins in the early 1870s when the University of Arkansas was granted land for its establishment. Construction of the building, originally known as University Hall, commenced in 1873 and was completed in 1875. Designed by Chicago architect John Mills Van Osdel, Old Main was modeled after the University Hall at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, which has since been demolished. The construction was a monumental task, given the limited transportation infrastructure of the time. Local materials were used extensively, with lumber transported by oxen-drawn wagons from the Peter Van Winkle Sawmill and bricks made from clay dug on campus.

Old Main has witnessed numerous transformations over the years. After nearly a century of use, the building fell into disrepair and was closed in 1981 for safety reasons. A fierce debate ensued over whether to restore or demolish the historic structure. Fortunately, restoration won the day, and extensive renovations began in 1989, concluding in 1991. The $10 million renovation project preserved many of the building’s original features while updating it to meet modern safety standards.

Architectural Marvels

Standing five stories tall, Old Main is a masterpiece of 19th-century architecture. Its north tower rises to 130 feet, while the south tower stands at 123 feet. The building’s exterior is characterized by its red bricks, brown sandstone foundation, and intricate iron columns. These columns, which have been reinforced and encased for safety, remain a defining feature of Old Main’s wings.

Inside, the building retains much of its historic charm. The central stairwell, once an open and decorative feature, has been ingeniously preserved with an automated fire protection system. Giffels Auditorium, located in the north wing, showcases the original iron columns, now rendered non-structural but still a visual delight. The auditorium's distinctive window insets are a result of the building’s structural reinforcement during the renovation.

A Hub of Academic Life

Today, Old Main is more than just a historic building; it is a vibrant center of academic life at the University of Arkansas. It houses the offices of the J. William Fulbright College of Arts and Sciences, its honors program, and five academic departments. Classrooms and meeting spaces within Old Main are abuzz with intellectual activity, making it a bustling hub for students and faculty alike.

The Arboretum and Senior Walk

The expansive lawn in front of Old Main, known as the arboretum, is a serene green space that adds to the building’s allure. The arboretum is home to one of every type of tree native to Arkansas, with a few exceptions. This area, once a training ground for military officers and a practice field for the university band, now serves as a tranquil spot for students to study, play, or simply relax.

Another unique feature of the University of Arkansas is the Senior Walk, a tradition that dates back to 1905. Each year, the names of all graduates are etched into the sidewalks that encircle and cut through the campus. The walk begins right in front of Old Main with the names of the first graduating class of 1876, creating a tangible connection between past and present students.

The Bells and Clock

Old Main is also known for its bells and clock. The original bell, installed in 1879, is no longer in regular use but holds historical significance. In 1949, electronic bells dedicated to students lost in any war were installed, later replaced by a computerized bell device. These bells chime the Westminster Chimes every hour from 8 AM to 8 PM and play the alma mater twice daily.

The south tower of Old Main was designed to house a clock, but it wasn’t until the 2005 renovation that a clock face was finally installed. This addition was part of a broader renovation that included a new roof, replacement of aging mortar, and other aesthetic improvements. The clock face was dedicated in celebration of the university’s Campaign for the Twenty-First Century, which raised $1 billion.

The James William Fulbright Statue

In 2002, a statue of J. William Fulbright, a former student, law faculty member, university president, congressman, and senator, was erected in the rear courtyard of Old Main. Fulbright, the namesake of the college housed within Old Main, is celebrated for his contributions to education and international exchange. The statue’s dedication ceremony featured a speech by President Bill Clinton, adding to the statue’s significance.

Old Main is not just a building; it is a symbol of the University of Arkansas’s rich history and enduring commitment to education. Its architectural beauty, historical significance, and vibrant academic life make it a must-visit landmark in Fayetteville. Whether you are a student, alumnus, or visitor, Old Main stands as a testament to the university’s legacy and its role in shaping the future of Arkansas and beyond.