Completed in 1908 in the Neoclassical style, Sampson Hall was financed by steel magnate and philanthropist Andrew Carnegie, with a matching gift of $40,000 from Elizabeth S. Stetson, wife of John B. Stetson. Designed by James Klutho, who pioneered modern American architectural design in Florida, the building is noted for its full-height entrance portico with classical Ionic columns and stucco pediment. Walls are built of brick manufactured in nearby Lake Helen.
Named for former trustee C.T. Sampson, a Massachusetts shoe manufacturer, Sampson Hall was the university’s library until 1964. Sampson donated $1,000 to establish the library, $1,000 each year until his death, and left a $20,000 bequest to develop the collection. Stetson was the first university in Florida to employ a full-time librarian. The building is now home to the Creative Arts and Modern Languages departments and contains classrooms, offices and studio space.
132 E. Michigan Ave. DeLand, FL 32723
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