Historic Resource Survey Form : Gerlinger Hall
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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 Women’s Memorial Hall was build largely as a tribute to the accomplishments of women. Built in 1919 and designed by Ellis
Lawrence, the building was to house the Department of Physical Training for Women, the Department of Household Arts, the Infirmary
and all the women’s organizations call for special quarters. In addition it was to provide a center for the women’s activities on campus.
Irene H. Gerlinger, the first woman on the University of Oregon’s Board of Regents and an ardent fundraiser and supporter for the
University began a long campaign for the women’s building in 1915. In 1921, the Women’s Memorial Hall was dedicated and officially
opened for use and in 1929 was renamed Gerlinger Hall. Mrs. Gerlinger was deeply involved in the design and decoration of the
building.
Gerlinger Hall is part of the Women’s Memorial Quadrangle, an open area planned in lawn, shaded by a mixture of shrubs and trees
and traversed by a curvilinear walkway, designed by Ellis Lawrence, the first Dean of the School of Architecture and Allied Arts. The
ensemble is considered a fine and rare example of a collegiate building group in the Georgian style. Gerlinger Hall still retains its
historic Georgian details. Immediately south of the building is the Women’s Physical Education Field, historically used in conjunction
with the women’s gymnasium in Gerlinger. This building is sited to the south of the Pioneer Axis and Knight Library Axis, north of the
Gerlinger Field Green and west of the Gerlinger Entrance Green, all being investigated as part of the Getty Foundation Cultural
Landscape Preservation Plan.
Description
5 pages
Keywords
cultural resources survey, history, architecture