“Remember those names Colonel J G Padgett and Colonel John Pulaski Thomas” These men are honored in the very structure we stand before Padgett-Thomas Barracks. This imposing building is more than just bricks and mortar. It’s a testament to The Citadel’s history and its enduring spirit. Originally built between 1920 and 1922 it was the first structure on this new campus. The Citadel had outgrown its old location in Marion Square. The city and state collaborated to relocate the college to a section of Hampton Park.
Padgett-Thomas Barracks served as living quarters for hundreds of cadets. The original design included four floors. The ground floor housed support spaces. These included a carpenter’s shop storage rooms a barber shop and recreational areas. The upper three floors held cadet rooms. The tower held a water tank. While originally intended to be 11 stories it was completed at eight stories tall. Think of the architectural marvel originally made of masonry with a stucco exterior. It surrounded a central quadrangle a red and white checkerboard pattern.
But time marches on. After decades of service the barracks began to show its age. By 2000 structural problems necessitated demolition. The Citadel secured funding for a complete rebuild. Demolished in 2001 reconstruction began in 2002. The new Padgett-Thomas Barracks opened in August 2004. It retains the appearance of its predecessor but incorporates modern construction techniques. These ensure protection against hurricanes and seismic activity. The tower now houses meeting rooms replacing the water tank.
Notice the distinctive eight-story tower. It’s a striking feature. It stands 109 feet tall overlooking the parade ground. The building’s design is noteworthy. Each cadet room opens onto a gallery facing the quadrangle. Each corner contains a spiral staircase. There are even two additional staircases beside the tower. The rooms themselves are simple. They measure about 10 feet by 18 feet with oak floors. Each includes a sink and a rifle rack. This design is replicated across all the Citadel’s barracks. But Padgett-Thomas Barracks remains the most iconic.
The barracks remains a vital part of The Citadel. It houses the Second Battalion of the South Carolina Corps of Cadets. It accommodates the E F G and H companies. The Regimental Staff the Regimental Band and Pipes are also located there. Even the regimental commander resides here. This cadet is the highest-ranking member of the senior class. They are responsible for the entire Corps of Cadets which has over 2300 members.
So as you gaze upon Padgett-Thomas Barracks remember its history. Remember the men it honors. It’s a place of tradition a symbol of strength and a testament to enduring legacy of The Citadel.