Fall 2025 Special Collections Research Center Exhibition: “Architectural Origins: Syracuse University Buildings, 1870-1970”
Syracuse University Libraries’ Special Collections Research Center’s (SCRC) Fall 2025 exhibition, titled “Architectural Origins: Syracuse University Buildings, 1870-1970,” opens on August 18, 2025, on the 6th floor of Bird Library. Curated by Meg Mason, University Archivist, the exhibition showcases photographs, architectural drawings and plans, correspondence and other University records, postcards and printed materials. Three-dimensional objects will also be on display, including a piece of a bleacher from Archbold Stadium and I.M. Pei’s architectural model of the Newhouse Communications Center complex.
Ranging in style from Romanesque Revival to Georgian Revival to modern, Syracuse University’s early buildings embody the architectural evolution of the campus during its first one hundred years. Since the University’s founding, its buildings have been the backdrop for artistic expression, scholarly work, athletic achievements and student activism. The origins of the University’s thirteen colleges and schools as well as its student housing and centers of administration and athletics can also be found within these buildings. Further, they have exemplified the University’s values of scholarship, discovery and inclusion as well as historically significant architecture. Fifteen of Syracuse University’s structures are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The opening reception of Architectural Origins: Syracuse University Buildings, 1870-1970 is being held on Thursday, September 4 from 4:30 – 6:00 p.m. at Bird Library, 6th floor. Communication Access Realtime Translation will be provided at the reception. Those requiring other accommodations can email mlwagh@syr.edu by August 26, 2025. Register to attend the opening reception.
In concurrence with the exhibition, the Special Collections Research Center is hosting an event to feature historical film clips from the University Archives on Thursday, October 30, from 5:00 to 6:30 pm in Bird Library’s Peter Graham Scholarly Commons. Dating between 1910 and 1970, the films will showcase Syracuse University's buildings as well as activities and events that took place around and within them, illustrating their role in the broader University landscape. The audience will view film clips of building dedications, athletic games, and commencement ceremonies, as well as campus scenes and student activities. Viewers will catch glimpses of the Hall of Languages, Newhouse I, Yates Castle, Archbold Stadium, Hendricks Chapel, Maxwell, and others. Exhibition curator and University Archivist Meg Mason will share insights throughout the program, including details about the buildings and interesting historical anecdotes featured in the films.
Communication Access Realtime Translation will be provided. If you require an accommodation, please email Max Wagh by October 20 at mlwagh@syr.edu. Register to attend Movie Night at the University Archives.