Ready to uncover a story of student activism and a professor’s legacy? Today we stand before Lewis Hall at Tufts University. It is more than just a dormitory. It’s a landmark with a fascinating history.
Lewis Hall’s story begins in the late 1960s. The university planned it as a dorm for Jackson College. But upon its completion in 1970, it became a co-educational residence hall. This marked a first for the Medford campus. Hugh Stubbins designed the building.
However, construction wasn’t without its challenges. Unrest brewed over minority representation in the workforce. The Afro American Society at Tufts stepped in. They protested the contractor’s hiring practices. Students and faculty engaged in peaceful confrontations. Tufts even filed a lawsuit, reflecting the university’s commitment to affirmative action.
Interestingly, before its official dedication, students playfully called it “Freefer Hall.” This came from a satirical article in the Observer. The article cited a fictional gift from Mr. and Mrs. Quentin P. Freefer. They were supposedly champions of equal rights. Despite the obvious hoax under the byline Ima F. Rawde, the name stuck. Students even petitioned to keep it but the university decided to honor Professor Leo Rich Lewis.
In 1972, the building was formally named Lewis Hall. It honored Leo Rich Lewis, a beloved professor of music. He composed many Tufts songs. Thus, the building became a tribute to his contributions.
Lewis Hall continues to serve as an undergraduate dormitory. It houses students in single, double, and triple rooms. It welcomes students of all gender identities. Each floor has gendered community bathrooms.
Inside Lewis Hall, you’ll find several amenities. The Crafts Center is in the basement. The main lounge on the ground floor provides a common area. Smaller lounges and study rooms are on other floors. A first-floor kitchen includes a stove, oven, and refrigerator. Laundry facilities and bicycle storage are also available.
Lewis Hall represents Tufts’ evolution. It stands as a testament to student activism and honors a respected professor. It combines living space with community resources. It enriches the campus experience. As you continue your tour, remember Lewis Hall. It is a place where history, activism, and student life intertwine.