Old Main

1875
Vanderbilt Photographic Archives
Vanderbilt University Special Collections

The first building constructed on the fledgling campus in 1875 was the Main Building. It served multiple functions including classroom space, library, and rooms for faculty and students. The two towers accentuated the collegiate gothic style favored by the early campus architects and featured gargoyle downspouts, ornate doorways and windows, and multiple staircases at the entrances. By 1905, the building was known as College Hall and still served as a multipurpose facility.