ITEMS

Old Main Graphic 2

A graphic detailing the history of USU's Old Main. Used for The Built Environment Exhibit at USU's Merrill-Cazier Library.

2018-02

02a-Old Main.pdf

The administrative center of campus, Old Main
stands as the university’s definitive symbol. At
one time, Old Main contained the college
library, auditorium, a chapel, faculty offices,
workshops, laboratories, and classrooms. In
fact, instruction in every subject from English to
Animal Science has taken place within the walls
of Old Main. At the insistence of President J.W.
Sanborn, students also participated in
mandatory, non-denominational chapel
exercises. The president kept attendance, even
issuing several demerits to his son Harry for
shirking the obligation.

Old Main also featured other non-classroom
facilities, such as a museum and a gymnasium
on the third floor. In fact, the utility of Old Main
made it subject to frequent remodeling in order
to accommodate an expanding faculty, staff,
and student body.

In addition to skipping chapel services, the Demerit
Book also noted other student infractions.

USU Special Collections and Archives,
USU A-Board Collection, Image 3a

Students held their early college balls and dances in the gymnasium. It also
served the needs of women students who could opt for physical culture
classes rather than military drill, which was mandatory until the 1950s.

USU Special Collections and Archives, USU A-Board Collection, Image 1423