Historic Resource Survey Form : Earl Hall Complex
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Date
2006
Authors
Johnson, Susan
Mertz, Kathleen
Mendoca, Elise
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Oregon
Abstract
The Earl Complex, also identified as Virgil D. Earl Hall, was completed in 1955 as an addition to Straub Hall. The design reflects the
International style popular in the post-war period. This complex was named for Virgil D. Earl, University of Oregon alumnus and Athletic
Director (1923-31) as well as Dean of Men (1931-45). Earl Hall is comprised of units named for former faculty: Edgar McClure
(Chemistry), Davis Walter Morton (first dean of Administration), Frederick George Young (first dean of Graduate School), Orin Fletcher
Stafford (Chemistry Department head), Henry Davidson Sheldon (founder of Oregon State Teachers Assoc., first dean of School of
Education). It was built as a dormitory to house incoming freshmen men, including five separate units for 330 students. There have
been minor renovations over the life of the building, including the restoration of the exterior tile wall portions in 1983 and 1985. This
restoration included the removal and replacement “in-kind” of broken and cracked tiles. In 1985, the entire interior was painted. In
1991, the entire building was re-roofed. It is used for coed housing today. Dining and kitchen facilities are no longer situated in the
complex. The former dining rooms have been converted into a lounge space in each of the 5 units. Laundry facilities have also been
incorporated into the basements. Most recently (2005), Earl Hall has received universal accessibility alterations (ADA elevator, partial
removal of covered walkway). This building is sited between the Emerald Axis, 15th Avenue Axis and Promenade and it is connected
to Straub Hall.
While this building has continuity of use, has good integrity, and is in good condition, it does not meet any of the criteria of significance
for listing on the National Register. It has been ranked as a non-contributing resource due to its very low significance compared to other
campus buildings.
Description
4 pages
Keywords
cultural resources survey, architecture, history