Summer 2010
Departments
College Hall
For many, it is the first thing they notice when they step foot on campus. Its regal bell tower and stately architecture make College Hall a focal point of Simpson College.
But it has not always been that way.
College Hall, known to some as Old Chapel, was one of the very first buildings constructed at Simpson, and completing the project proved challenging. It was scheduled to be completed in October 1868, but the contractor went bankrupt and was not able to finish the project. Under new direction, the b uilding was completed two years l ater and the formal dedication took place on October 2, 1870. It served as an academic building and chapel for the flourishing school.
However, over time, the oldest building on campus began to deteriorate due to lack of maintenance. It was deemed uncomfortable and even unsafe for classes, so in 1980, the windows were boarded up and heavy beams barricaded the front doors of the abandoned building.
Students, faculty and alumni were determined to return the building to its former glory. That too was a challenge; opponents of the idea cited cost and the impracticality of renovating the building. Determination prevailed, however, and the building was rededicated on October 25, 1986.
Today, College Hall is home to Simpson’s financial aid office and several meeting rooms on the second and third floors. The first floor houses the admissions office, where the grand building greets admiring prospective students day in and day out.
Sigler Tower: The majestic bell tower is named in recognition of Luther L. Hill, Jr. and Sara Carpenter Hill for their dedication and financial support during the restoration of College Hall. The tower is named in honor of Sara Hill’s grandparents Frederick Carl and Sara Sigler. The Siglers were also strong supporters of the school.
Bedroom Set: The antique bedroom set tucked away in the Red and Gold Room was donated to Simpson by the estate of Matthew Simpson in the 1930s. It was last used in the president’s home as guestroom furniture by President Robert and Lue McBride. When President Stephen Jennings moved into the Sigler House, he needed the room for his family and the set was moved into College Hall.
Spiral Staircase: The view of the main staircase is as breathtaking as the staircase itself with its rich wood flooring and bold red carpet runner. The stairs are also the source of one of Simpson’s oldest legends. Student Mildred Hedges died after taking a tumble from the top of the staircase 75 years ago. Many believe her spirit remains in the building.
Honoring Service to Country: A bronze plaque on the third floor recognizes the nearly 200 men “who left Simpson’s halls to serve in the World War.”
Bishop Simpson: One of the many remembrances of the school's namesake, a cast iron likeness hangs outside the Matthew Simpson Room on the second floor.
Honor Roll of the Names that Live at Simpson: A 10-foot granite wall mounted on the north side of the Matthew Simpson Room is a permanent reminder of Simpson’s most distinguished faculty, alumni and benefactors. New names will be added during Simpson’s Sesquicentennial celebration.
