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OSU Buildings Histories in the Special Collections and Archives Research Center

Building History

 

Built in 1960 and renovated in 1997, this residence hall and dining complex is named for Oswald West, the 14th governor of Oregon. He is credited with establishing Oregon's highway system and the beach highway law that protects public access to the high-water line of Oregon's beaches.

General Information

Address

391 SW 30th St

Architect

Burns, Bear, McNeil & Schneider

Year Built

1960

Renovations

A $13 million renovation was completed in 1996, intended to transform the traditional dorm rooms into "mini suites" and provide updates to the West Dining Center. 

Square Footage

62,270 sq ft

Purpose/Usage

Undergraduate residence hall and dining center. 

Previous Name(s)

N/A

Namesake

Oswald West - 14th Governor of Oregon

Historic District

Yes; contributing building

Blueprints

Facilities Services Records, 1888-2003, Folder 158

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: The Oregon State University Memorabilia Collection includes information about West Hall, including a student housing brochure. In addition, the Office of Budgets and Planning Photographs includes an architectural drawing of West Hall and images of the building construction. 

Oregon Digital: A search for West Hall yields 246 results, including photographs and mentions in university periodicals. 

Map