University Hall: A History of Lincoln's Aspirational but Ill-Fated Landmark
The history of University Hall in Lincoln, Nebraska, is a tale of grand ambition, flawed execution, and eventual demise. Intended to be a symbol of the city's burgeoning potential, the building was plagued by construction woes from its inception, ultimately leading to its demolition. Despite its troubled existence, University Hall held a special place in the hearts of those who experienced it, leaving behind a legacy of both aspiration and disappointment.
Conception and Design
In the late 1860s, as Lincoln was establishing itself as the capital of Nebraska, the need for a prominent university building became apparent. University Hall was envisioned as a structure that would not only serve as a center of learning but also inspire and impress visitors, thereby increasing property values and solidifying Lincoln's status.
The design of University Hall was entrusted to architect J. M. McBird of Logansport, Indiana. McBird's vision, described as "Franco Italianate," promised an ornate and imposing structure. J.D. Silver and Sons were selected as the contractors for the ambitious project.
Construction Catastrophes
The construction of University Hall was fraught with difficulties from the outset. Building materials were scarce, as a railroad line into Lincoln had yet to be established. Lumber had to be hauled by wagon from the Nebraska City area, and cord wood, essential for firing the bricks, was transported over considerable distances. A local brick shortage further compounded the problems.
The project was also plagued by poor quality materials, cost overruns, and negative publicity. On August 9, 1870, a tragic accident occurred when a cable holding scaffolding broke, resulting in the deaths of three construction workers. The contractor, J.D. Silver, was suspected of negligence in the incident. Ironically, Silver later became the mayor of Lincoln.
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The controversies surrounding the construction of University Hall were so significant that they contributed, at least in part, to the impeachment of David Butler, Nebraska's first governor, who had been a strong advocate for the project.
The cornerstone of University Hall was laid in 1869, marking the official start of construction. However, the troubles continued even after the building was completed.
Structural Deficiencies and Constant Repairs
University Hall was a three-story building with a full basement, a mansard roof, a large central tower, a chapel, and a bell. It was constructed using local limestone and common brick. Unfortunately, these materials proved to be of inferior quality, leading to a series of structural problems that plagued the building throughout its existence.
By the time University Hall was ready for classes in the fall of 1871, repairs had already been made to the foundation. The foundation under the chapel was replaced in 1873, and the entire foundation was replaced in 1877. Another new foundation was installed under the tower in 1893. The contents of the original cornerstone were damaged due to leakage, prompting the laying of another cornerstone with the 1877 foundation.
The roof was no better than the foundation. The original tin roof leaked from the beginning and was replaced with a slate roof in 1883. However, the slate roof added weight to an already strained foundation and walls, exacerbating the existing structural problems.
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Attempts at Stabilization and Eventual Demise
By 1916, the walls of University Hall had shifted and deteriorated to such an extent that a series of steel rods were added, running through the width of the building from north to south, to provide stability. These rods were a desperate attempt to hold the structure together and prevent its collapse.
Despite these efforts, the building's condition continued to worsen. In 1925, the upper stories and mansard roof of University Hall were removed, leaving a diminished and uninspiring remnant of what had once been an imposing structure.
In 1948, the decision was made to raze University Hall completely. The building was deemed beyond repair, and its continued existence posed a safety hazard.
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tags: #alumni #hall #lincoln #ne #history
