What if these yellow bricks could talk? Old Main on Wayne State University’s campus would have countless stories. It has seen Detroit grow and Wayne State evolve.
Old Main started as Detroit’s Central High School. Construction began in 1894. It took three years to build this academic building. Brick and limestone came from the land nearby. Architects Malcomson & Higginbotham designed it. The Academic Building had 103 rooms for 2000 students. It cost $573345.13.
Central High moved here after a fire destroyed its previous building. Classes started in 1896. A large wing was added in 1908 because of growing student numbers. College-level courses began in 1913. Detroit Junior College started here in 1917. This college became the College of the City of Detroit in 1923. It was a main part of what is now Wayne State University.
Central High School moved to a new location in 1926. The Academic Building was then used only for the college. It was renamed the Main Building. Over time, it became known as “Old Main”. Wayne University was formed in 1934. It became Wayne State University in 1956.
Many changes and repairs have been made. New walls and rooms were added in the 1930s and 1940s. The clock in the tower was replaced in 1934. A new wing was added along Warren Avenue in 1937. By the 1980s, Old Main needed work. There were falling ceilings and peeling paint. There was also vandalism, a fire, and leaking roofs. Wayne State started a fundraising campaign in 1995. Large renovations began that year. Systems were replaced. The Academic Building was restored to its original look.
Today, Old Main houses the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. Many classes are held here. Old Main shows the university’s history. It is a symbol of Wayne State University.
The Planetarium is in the basement of the Academic Building. The Department of Geology is also located here. You can also find mineral collections. The Museum of Anthropology is on the first floor. The Map Room and Library are located here too. The Department of Music is also on the first floor.
The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences is on the second floor. You can also find the College of Fine Performing and Communication Arts. The Maggie Allesee Department of Dance is located here. The Department of Art and Art History has a section here. Fashion and Design are on the second floor. The Department of Music also has a section here.
The Department of Art and Art History is on the third floor. The Department of Theatre is located here as well. The Department of Dance also has space here. The Department of Film and Media Arts & Studies is on the fourth floor. The Department of Photography is also located here.
Old Main stands as a testament to education and perseverance. Its walls have witnessed generations of students pursuing their dreams. From its days as a high school to its current role as a vital part of Wayne State University. Old Main remains a Detroit landmark.