Old Main

Date1887

MediumCeramic

Dimensions8 1/4 × 22 in. diameter (21 × 55.9 cm)

ClassificationsDecorative Arts, Ceramics

Credit LineGift of LeLand Spangler. In the Farm House Museum Collection, Farm House Museum, University Museums, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa.

Object number78.5.1ab

Status

On view

Collections

Decorative Arts

CultureAmerican

Label TextOnce standing near the present site of Beardshear Hall, Main (often called “Old Main”) was completed in 1868 as the central building of the Iowa Agricultural College and Model Farm. As only the second major structure on campus, it effectively was the college in its early years, housing classrooms, the library, a chapel, museum, dining halls, and residences for both students and faculty. As campus expanded through the late nineteenth century, Main’s role gradually diminished as specialized buildings took over its functions. Yet from the beginning, the structure faced significant challenges. In 1864, just one year into construction, the partially built structure had to be demolished after the architect was dismissed for “incompetence.” When a completed version finally opened in 1868, it lacked basic provisions for water, heat, and lighting. As time went on, additional unfortunate events followed including a tornado which damaged the south tower in 1882, and a fire in 1900. Despite this string of setbacks, Main remained an iconic campus landmark, until another catastrophic fire destroyed it in 1902. In its place rose a new “fireproof” administrative building, Central Building (later renamed Beardshear Hall) in 1938. Although Main only stood for 32 years, it left a lasting impression on generations of students and faculty. Its image was widely reproduced on souvenirs and memorabilia. https://historicexhibits.lib.iastate.edu/buildings/oldmain.html https://ameshistory.org/tribunearchives/iowa-agricultural-college-old-main https://iowastatedaily.com/119501/news/history-on-campus-beardshear-hall/

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