But what stories do these walls whisper? Gerberding Hall stands proudly on the University of Washington campus in Seattle. It is a building rich with history and architectural significance. Once known as the Administration Building, Gerberding Hall was built in 1949. It was the first major structure erected after World War II. Victor N. Jones and John T. Jacobsen designed it. The construction cost $1,561,924.
Gerberding Hall is located on the south edge of Red Square. Its Collegiate Gothic style features cast stone. Look closely at the gargoyles, pointed arches, towers, and gabled roofs. Dudley Pratt’s 25 sculptures line the parapets. Each represents a different academic discipline. Notice Neptune on the east gable. He symbolizes oceanography and fisheries science.
The central tower dominates Gerberding Hall. Each side of the tower has engraved keys of Phi Beta Kappa. Originally planned as a belfry, the tower remained silent until 2008. That year, the Gordon Stuart Peek Foundation Memorial Bells were installed. These eight bells are designed for change ringing.
Over the exterior doorway to the tower, a shield shows Herbert Condon. The words “Friend of Youth” accompany his image. Take a moment to find the Siberian Husky sculpture. Also, spot the man in academic gowns. He holds an adding machine and a money bag.
Step inside Gerberding Hall. The interior has two three-story wings set at different ground levels. These wings connect at the central tower. In 1969, an event shook Gerberding Hall. A bomb detonated near the main entrance in the early hours of June 29. The explosion left a six-foot hole in the reinforced concrete. Windows shattered as far as 600 feet away. Fortunately, only a custodian was present. He remained unharmed. It was one of four bombs set off in Seattle that day. Miraculously, no one was injured in any of the blasts.
In 1995, the Administration Building received a new name. It became Gerberding Hall. This renaming honored William Gerberding, the retiring university president. As of 2017, Gerberding Hall houses the office of the university’s president. The building stands as a testament to history and change. It reflects both turbulent times and academic dedication. Gerberding Hall continues to be a vital part of the University of Washington. It welcomes students, faculty, and visitors alike. It is a place where history echoes and futures begin.