From the Archives revealed: Fire at Heavilon Hall

Photo courtesy of Purdue Libraries Archives and Special Collections. Download image

On Jan. 23, 1894, four days after its dedication, Heavilon Hall burned to the ground. The fire, sparked by an explosion in the boiler room, spread quickly through the building and the structure was a total loss. The following day, Purdue President James H. Smart vowed that Heavilon Hall would be rebuilt "one brick higher," a phrase that continues to inspire the Purdue community to reach ever greater heights. More information is available at the Purdue Libraries blog.

The "From the Archives" photo series from Purdue Today and Purdue Libraries Archives and Special Collections will continue to share a glimpse at Purdue’s past throughout the spring.