Wondering where women at the University of Minnesota first found their voice? It happened right here at Shevlin Hall. This beautiful building has a rich history. It played a vital role in shaping the University of Minnesota.
Shevlin Hall stands on the very ground where Old Main once stood. Old Main was the first building on campus. It was destroyed by a fire in 1904. Thomas Shevlin donated $60000 to construct Shevlin Hall. He honored his wife Alice with this generous gift.
The building was completed in 1906. Ernest Kennedy designed it in the Renaissance Revival style. Shevlin Hall became the home of women’s groups. It provided a space for them to connect and organize.
Imagine the women of the University gathering here. Before Shevlin Hall they lacked a dedicated space. Shevlin Hall offered basic amenities. It also provided a place for intellectual and social pursuits. It quickly became the heart of the Women’s Union.
The Women’s Union predates the Minnesota Union for men. The men organized in 1908. They sought a space of their own after seeing the success of Shevlin Hall.
Shevlin Hall is more than just a building. It represents a significant moment in the University’s history. It’s a testament to the growing presence and influence of women on campus. It even contributed to the creation of the Minnesota Union.
Shevlin Hall is part of the University’s Old Campus Historic District. The National Register of Historic Places recognizes this district. Shevlin Hall currently houses the Department of Speech-Language-Hearing Sciences. It also houses the Julia M. Davis Speech-Language-Hearing Center.
Today Shevlin Hall continues to serve the University community. It has modern classrooms and technology. The clinic honors Dr. Julia M. Davis a professor emerita.
Take a moment to appreciate Shevlin Hall. It stands as a reminder of the past. It also represents the University’s ongoing commitment to education and progress. It started as a haven for women. Now, it’s a center for communication sciences. It’s a building with a purpose.