Wondering how this red brick building got its nickname? We’re standing before the Ashbel Smith Building, also known as Old Red. This Romanesque Revival structure is a significant piece of Texas history.
Old Red was built in 1891. Its architect was Nicholas J. Clayton. The red brick and sandstone give it a distinctive look. It stands proudly as a testament to Galveston’s past.
Initially, this was the first University of Texas Medical Branch building. Think about the countless doctors who began their journey right here. Ashbel Smith was a Republic of Texas diplomat. He was also a founder of the University of Texas System. In 1949, the building was named in his honor.
Old Red has weathered many storms. It even survived the devastating Galveston Hurricane of 1900. In 2008, Hurricane Ike flooded the building with six feet of water. Yet, it still stands.
In 1969, Old Red was registered as a Texas Historical Landmark. Renovations in 1985 helped preserve its beauty. Today, it stands as a symbol of pioneering medical education in Texas.
The Old Red Medical Museum is located here. It preserves and presents the medical heritage of UTMB. The museum engages audiences through stories and exhibitions. It inspires medical learning for all.
Imagine the early days. Visionary faculty and students walked these halls. For decades, Old Red was the heart of UTMB campus life. Even with growth and change, it remained important.
Old Red contrasts sharply with its sleeker neighbors. It is the oldest medical school building west of the Mississippi River. Its ornate details tell a story of dedication and perseverance.
Consider the cedar staircase within Old Red. Picture students learning in the tiered amphitheater. Envision pigeons flying in and out of the windows. These images bring the past to life.
Old Red represents more than just a building. It embodies the spirit of medical innovation and education. It honors the legacy of Ashbel Smith. It reminds us of the resilience of Galveston.
Take a moment to appreciate Old Red. It stands as a reminder of Texas’s rich medical history. It is a testament to those who shaped the future of healthcare in this state.