H – Henry F. Hall Building

From concrete slabs to computer riots, the Henry F. Hall Building has seen it all. This imposing structure, affectionately known as the ‘H’ Building, dominates the Sir George Williams Campus of Concordia University. Right here at 1455 de Maisonneuve Boulevard West, between Mackay and Bishop Streets, stands a building steeped in history and controversy. The Henry F. Hall Building opened its doors on October 14, 1966, the same day the Montreal Metro was inaugurated. Can you imagine the excitement in the city that day? Two major milestones in one day. The building, named after Henry Foss Hall, a key figure in Sir George Williams University’s history, cost a hefty C$27.5 million to construct. Its modular, pre-stressed concrete design, a marvel of the time, resulted in twelve floors encompassing a vast 782,000 square feet. The architects, Ross, Fish, Duschene and Barrett, along with James A. M. K. O’Beirne, created a building that would become a landmark, albeit one marked by both triumph and tragedy. Henry Foss Hall, the building’s namesake, served as president of Sir George Williams University from 1956 to 1962. He was instrumental in the university’s growth and development. His legacy extends beyond the building’s name, reflecting his dedication to education and his impact on countless students. However, the Henry F. Hall Building is not just a testament to architectural innovation and academic achievement. It’s also a silent witness to pivotal moments in Canadian history. In 1969, the building became the epicenter of the Sir George Williams Computer Riot, a significant student protest against anti-Black racism. This event marked a turning point in Canadian social history and is still commemorated at Concordia University today. Years later, in 1992, the building was again at the center of a tragic event known as the Concordia University Massacre. And in 2002, the Concordia University Netanyahu Riot further cemented the building’s place in history as a stage for social and political unrest. Despite these turbulent chapters, the Henry F. Hall Building remains a vital part of Concordia University. Its exterior, having faced decades of pollution and harsh weather, underwent a much-needed cleaning and repainting in 1994-95. The building stands as a testament to the enduring power of education and the ever-evolving narrative of the city itself.