Is it possible for a building to hold memories? Here at Merion Hall, the oldest residence hall at Bryn Mawr College, the stones themselves seem to whisper stories of the students who have called it home. Merion Hall was completed in 1885. It marked the opening of Bryn Mawr College.
Designed by Addison Hutton, Merion Hall is more than just a dorm. It is a tangible link to the college’s earliest days. Imagine the first students. They walked these halls. They studied by the light of fireplaces. They looked out of the window seats that still grace many rooms today.
The stairwells of Merion Hall are adorned with original stained glass windows. They cast colorful patterns across the landings. These windows are a testament to the enduring beauty and craftsmanship of the building. Recent renovations have ensured that Merion Hall will continue to inspire for generations. The exterior stonework was carefully repointed. The copper detailing was meticulously replaced.
Merion Green is the heart of the campus. It is located right outside Merion Hall. This green space has been the venue for countless outdoor events. Picnics, dances, concerts, carnivals, May Day celebrations, commencements, and reunions have all taken place here.
Today, Merion Hall houses over 100 students on four floors. While the building has been modernized with amenities like WiFi and laundry facilities, it retains its historic charm. Each room is equipped with a desk, chair, bed, drawers, wardrobe or closet, and bookshelf. The tea pantry offers a refrigerator and microwave for student use.
But perhaps the most intriguing story of Merion Hall is the legend of Lillian Vickers. Lillian was a student from the Class of 1903. Some say her ghost haunts the third floor. The tale varies. Some claim Lillian died from burns after a dropped match ignited her rug. Others say she was convinced she had leprosy and tragically sought a cure in kerosene.
A newspaper at the time reported that Lillian’s dormmates found her in a swoon. Burning remnants of her robe lay nearby. Despite the efforts of Dr. Christy, she died without explaining what had happened. Lillian’s last thoughts were reportedly for Bryn Mawr. She asked, “Was the college harmed?”
To this day, some residents of Merion Hall report strange occurrences. Doors open and close on their own. The sound of a woman humming mysteriously echoes through the halls. They attribute these events to Lillian’s restless spirit. “Lillian’s back,” they say knowingly.
Whether you believe in ghosts or not, the story of Lillian adds another layer to the rich history of Merion Hall. This building is a place of learning. It is a place of community. It is a place where the past and present intertwine.