Architectural Origins: Syracuse University Buildings, 1870-1970

Photograph of students participating in the groundbreaking for the Women’s Building, November 1950. Syracuse University Photograph Collection, University Archives

Bird Library, 6th Floor

August 18, 2025 - January 23, 2026

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.

Curated by Meg Mason, University Archivist, Architectural Origins: Syracuse University Buildings, 1870-1970 exhibits historical materials from the University Archives in Syracuse University Libraries’ Special Collections Research Center. 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.

The opening reception for the exhibition is being held on September 4 from 4:30 to 6 p.m. The exhibition will be on view at the Special Collections Research Center, Bird Library, 6th floor gallery during the Fall 2025 semester.