“Ever wonder what it was like to live in a women’s dormitory in the late 19th century?” That’s what comes to my mind as we stand before Foster Hall.
Foster Hall is located at 1130 E 59th Street. It stands as a testament to the University of Chicago’s early commitment to women’s education. Completed in October 1893, Foster Hall was one of the first three dormitories for women on campus. It was named in honor of Nancy Foster. The other two residences were Kelly Hall and Beecher Hall. They honored Elizabeth Green Kelly and Mary Beecher.
The architect Henry Ives Cobb designed Foster Hall. Cobb played a significant role in shaping the University’s early architectural identity.
Originally, Foster Hall provided a home for female students. In 1956, Foster Hall housed sixty-three women students. Imagine the lively atmosphere within its walls. Students would study and share stories.
Descriptions from that time paint a picture of odd-shaped rooms. They were crowded but had high ceilings and small windows.
By 1961-62, Foster Hall transitioned from a dormitory into classrooms, offices, and laboratories. Betty I. Wolf lived in Foster Hall during its last year as a full-service dorm in 1956-57. She recalled it as the best introduction to college life. It had a great mix of students.
Though renovated, some wonder if Foster Hall retains its original character. Is the lovely woodwork still visible? Today, Foster Hall serves a different purpose. Yet, it still echoes the legacy of those early women students. Their presence shaped the University of Chicago. Foster Hall stands as a reminder of their contributions. It represents the evolving role of women in higher education.