The University of Central Arkansas has been awarded a $64,500 grant by the Arkansas Natural and Cultural Resources Council to create a master plan for the restoration of the university’s oldest building, Main Hall.
Built in 1919, as an administrative and academic building for the campus, Main Hall is university’s oldest building and one of its most recognizable symbols. Even the university’s logo was inspired by Main Hall’s distinctive arched windows.
“Architecturally, Main Hall is a stunning example of the Colonial Revival style,” said Gayle Seymour, associate dean of the College of Fine Arts and Communication. “Its stone and glazed terracotta entrance details, boasting tobacco-leaf capitals and pilasters, would be almost impossible to replicate today.”
UCA President Allen Meadors, a 1969 graduate of the university, said Main Hall played a significant role in his as well as fellow alumni’s college experience.
“As a student, I remember attending many events in that building including academic presentations and student events, guest speakers and concerts,” he said.
Many of these events took place in Main Hall’s Ida Waldran Auditorium, which for more than 70 years has been the host location of significant people and events including the opening ceremonies of the Women’s Army Corps Branch No. 3 in 1943, a vocal concert by President Truman’s daughter, Margaret, and presentations by TV journalists Peter Jennings and Sam Donaldson as well as Presidents Ford and Clinton.
Due to years of budget constraints, the condition of Main Hall and Ida Waldran Auditorium has deteriorated, and while preliminary architectural assessments indicate Main Hall is structurally sound, the building fails to reach its full potential. The building’s condition has also forced academic and social events to move to more functional buildings located on the periphery of campus.
After completion of the master plan, the university will seek funding for the renovation of the building and its auditorium.Restoration of Main Hall will help define the public face of the campus and provide an inspiring formal entrance and first impression for visitors and prospective students. A restored Ida Waldran Auditorium will provide the city of Conway with a venue for community performing arts.
“This grant will provide us an opportunity to gain a full understanding of what’s needed to restore Main Hall and Ida Waldran Auditorium,” said Shelley Mehl, vice president of advancement. “This will result in a responsible and comprehensive plan to return both back to their full potential in time for the 100th anniversary of the construction of Main Hall in 2019.” – Jennifer Boyett
