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OSU Buildings Histories in the Special Collections and Archives Research Center

Building History

A black and white image of the Dairy Building, now known as Gilkey Hall.

 

This spot previously housed the first dormitory on campus called Alpha Hall, and then went on to be used by the pharmacy college. Alpha Hall was later split into two sections, one moved to 23rd and Orchard Street, and the other moved just north of what is now Bexell Hall, and then dismantled in 1922. The location was filled by the Dairy Building in 1912, which was designed by architect John Bennes. This building has been used by the College of Liberal Arts and known as Social Science Hall since 1951. It was renamed Gilkey Hall in 2001 for Gordon Gilkey, chair of the Art Department, and first dean of the College of Liberal Arts. Gilkey is also known worldwide for his printmaking and art collection, and for his efforts to save works of art during World War II. He helped establish the Oregon Arts Commission, the National Endowment for the Arts, and the National Endowment for the Humanities.

General Information

Address

122 SW Waldo Place

Architect

John V. Bennes

Year Built

1912

Renovations

1951, 1980, 1981

Square Footage

22,263

Purpose/Usage

Previously: Dairy Building. Currently: College of Liberal Arts, classrooms and office space

Previous Name(s)

N/A

Namesake

Gordon Gilkey, chair of the Art Department, and first dean of the College of Liberal Arts

Historic District

Yes; Historic Contributing Building

Blueprints

Facilities Services Records, 1888-2010

Maps

Facilities Services Records, 1888-2003. Series XX:  Campus, Farm, and Property Maps, 1899-1990. Campus and Farm Maps: 3-A

Oregon State University Campus Maps, 1894-1994

Photographs

Oregon State University Historical Photographs, 1868-1980

Further Archival Information

SCARC: SCARC's holdings include personal papers, photographs, and university records documenting the history of the Dairy Building.

Oregon Digital: Includes both images and textual materials documenting the history of the Dairy Building.

Map