Pacific Lutheran University

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Table of Contents

Tours

1. Campus Building History

   The history of Pacific Lutheran University buildings.

   Stops

   1. Harstad Hall

      The first stop on the Campus History Tour is Harstad Hall, which housed every aspect of the university from founding until 1912, when the Gymnasium was completed. Although usable when the school opened, Harstad Hall remained incomplete for many years. As Pacific Lutheran Academy became Pacific Lutheran College and then Pacific Lutheran University, Harstad Hall was fully built out as the campus grew and various administrative and academic functions moved to new buildings.
      
      Pacific Lutheran University was chartered by the State of Washington on December 11, 1890. Old Main was designed by August J. Heide and its first cornerstone was laid on October 4, 1891. Construction on the building was completed in 1894, and classes began in the fall of that year with a student body of thirty. Tuition was $1.00 a week.
      
      The ground floor held the dining hall, apartments for staff and faculty, dressing rooms for sports, and work rooms. The first floor held offices, classrooms, the library, and apartments. The second floor had classrooms in the center, dormitories for women on the north end, and dormitories for the men on the south end. The third floor housed men on the south end and women on the north end. The fourth and fifth floors were completed as dormitory wings by 1949 when the building was refurbished. There was an octagonal cupola on the roof, but it burned in August 1945 and was not replaced. The building was covered in thick ivy over the years until 1950, when it was removed because of the damage it was causing.
      
      In 1960 Old Main was renamed Harstad Hall in honor of Bjug Harstad, the first president. From 1963 onward, Harstad has been an all women residence hall. Harstad Hall was added to the National Register of Historic Places on January 27, 1984.
      
      Audio (13m15s, warning: distortions in recording)
      Long-time PLU employee Milton Nesvig speaking extensively on the history of Harstad Hall in 1975. He shares details on its design, changes over time, and some personal anecdotes from his time as a student.
      
      Images

      1. Laying of foundation for Old Main. Taken October 4, 1891.

      2. Old Main with cupola and cow fence.

      3. Chapel service in Old Main. President Ordal speaks from the podium and Joseph Edwards is at the piano.

      4. Classroom in Old Main.

      5. Library in Old Main.

      6. Reception room in Old Main.

      7. Kitchen in Old Main.

      8. Dining Hall in Old Main.

      9. Professor Anders Ramstad with a student in the chemistry lab in the Old Main basement.

      10. Students in Old Main room.

      11. Removal of ivy from Old Main.

      12. Bjug Harstad, PLU's first president and the namesake of Harstad Hall.
      
      See more images from the Archives collection.

   2. Trinity Lutheran Church

      Trinity Lutheran Church is the second stop on the tour. Besides its physical proximity, Trinity has a long history with PLU since the congregation met for a time in Harstad Hall and the Chapel building on campus.
      
      The first Trinity Lutheran Church, known as "The Gray Church" was built in 1907 and dedicated in 1910. According to "Trinity Lutheran Church of Parkland, Washington 75th Anniversary 1919-1994" the church was designed to be cross-shaped, 70-feet long & 70-feet wide, and built of brick and stone at a cost of $16,000. There was a basement, steeple and many stairs. It was located where the south end of Trinity Lutheran Church's present sanctuary now stands. The "Gray Church" was finally demolished in 1957 as the location was being prepared for building the congregation's new church. The new building was designed by Tacoma architecture firm Lea, Pearson & Richards, who designed many PLU buildings.
      
      Images
      1.Trinity Lutheran Church when it was known as “The Gray Church.”

      2. Another view of Trinity Lutheran Church.

      3. Trinity Lutheran Church seen from across the street with construction equipment present.

      4. Trinity Lutheran’s sanctuary under construction.

      5. Trinity Lutheran’s sanctuary under construction.

      6. Trinity Lutheran’s bell tower under construction.

      7. An event at Trinity Lutheran Church.

   3. East Campus

      The third stop on this tour was originally known as the Parkland School. Though separate from PLU for many years, the two shared a community and eventually the Parkland School became part of PLU under the name East Campus.
      
      East Campus was built in 1908 according to the design of architect W.J. Plouffe. In 1920, a 4 room addition was constructed with Lundberg & Mahon as the architects. Architects Mock & Morrison added an auditorium/gymnasium in 1937. The school was shut down in 1982, when PLU began leasing it from Franklin Pierce School District before purchasing it outright in 1989.
      
      Over the years East Campus was home to PLU’s Women’s Center, department of Marriage and Family Therapy, dance, yoga, and tai chi classes in its gymnasium, and hosted Mount Rainier Lutheran High School.
      
      Images

      1. Parkland School foundation being set up.

      2. Parkland School during construction.

      3. Parkland School during construction.

      4. Parkland School during construction.

      5. Parkland School during construction.

      6. Parkland School during construction.

      7. Parkland School seen from Pacific Avenue.

      8. Parkland School seen with a group of people and a totem pole.
      
      See more images from the Archives collection.

   4. Gymnasium

      The fourth stop on the Campus History Tour is the Gymnasium, the second built by the university. In spite of its name, the Gymnasium was a multi-purpose facility that gave students more entertainment, athletic, and academic opportunities than permitted by Harstad Hall and the grounds alone.
      
      The Gymnasium was located on the hill just south of Old Main in 1912. Funded by gifts from alumni, students, and friends of the school, it included a running track, a stage where programs and plays were held, and a science laboratory in the basement. The Gymnasium was also the location for the Grand March, a form of student entertainment before dancing was allowed.
      
      The Gymnasium burnt down on June 4, 1946 in a fire of unknown origin, taking the science laboratories in the basement and all the sports equipment with it. This created an urgent need for a new gym and science building.
      
      Audio (6m32s, warning: distortions in recording)
      Long-time PLU employee Milton Nesvig speaking on the history of the Gymnasium in 1975. He covers its funding, some personal anecdotes, and its destruction by fire.
      

      Images

      1. Front view of the old Gymnasium.

      2. Gymnasium and Old Main. 

      3. The back view of Old Main and the Gymnasium.

      4. The Gymnasium burning in 1946.

      5. The Gymnasium burning in 1946.
      
      See more images from the Archives collection.
      

   5. Tennis Court

      Tour stop 5 is not a building, but rather a student outdoor project: the Tennis Courts. This is the first but not the last tour stop built by student labor.
      
      In 1914 students built a tennis court on the south side of Old Main with Professor Ole J. Stuen as coach. The clear area nearby served as a location for football and baseball in the early days of the school.
      

      Images

      1. Students begin work on the tennis courts beside Old Main.

      2. Tennis Courts on South Side of Old Main.

      3. Baseball game with Harstad Hall, Tennis Court, and Gymnasium in the background.

      4. Baseball game with Harstad Hall, Tennis Court, and Gymnasium in the background.

      5. Football game with Trinity Lutheran spire, Chapel, and Harstad Hall in the background.

      6. Football game with Chapel, Harstad Hall, and Tennis Court in the background.

   6. Chapel

      The sixth tour stop is the Chapel, the third building added to campus. The Chapel served as a spiritual center for the campus as well as the community since both campus chapel services and the meetings of the Trinity Lutheran congregation were held in this building.
      
      The Chapel was erected between present day Mortvedt Library and Harstad Hall in 1920. Chapel and Trinity Lutheran Church services were held upstairs in this building, and Sunday School and Ladies Aid met in the basement. This continued until Trinity Lutheran moved to its present location in 1937. In 1947 chapel services moved to the newly constructed Memorial Gymnasium.
      
      From 1945 to 1954 a commercial print shop rented the basement. This shop published university publications including the Mooring Mast and the Bulletin, as well as local newspaper the Prairie Pointer.
      
      The Art Department occupied the Chapel from the late 1940s until the building was razed in 1971.
      
      Audio (14m)
      Long-time PLU employee Milton Nesvig speaking on the history of the Chapel Building in 1975. He covers its uses over time, the different publishers that occupied its basement, and chapel attendance policy at PLU through the years.
      

      Images

      1. Front of the old Chapel.

      2. Front of Old Main and the Chapel.

      3. Campus entrance and Chapel.

      4. The Gymnasium, Old Main, and the Chapel.

      6. The Chapel when it held the Art Department.
      
      See more images from the Archives collection.
      

   7. Xavier Hall

      The fourth building erected on campus and the seventh tour stop is Xavier Hall. Unlike its predecessor campus additions the Chapel and Gymnasium, Xavier Hall was built for purely academic purposes, serving as the library for nearly thirty years.
      
      Designed by architect Emanuel J. Bresemann with Heath, Gove and Bell, Xavier Hall was built in 1939. The total cost was $104,000. PLC undertook all development at this time on a debt free basis. Therefore, the reading room and offices were not completed until 10 years later in 1948.
      
      In 1967 the Mortvedt Library was built, and this building became Xavier Hall, in honor of Johan Ulrik Xavier. Xavier worked at the school from 1902 until 1942 as resident theologian, professor, librarian, and acted as president in 1920-1921. In 2001 the building was remodeled and rededicated.
      
      Audio (2m50s)
      Long-time PLU employee Milton Nesvig speaking on the history of the Xavier Hall in 1975.
      
      Images

      1. Cornerstone laying for Xavier Hall on October 23, 1937.

      2. Cornerstone laying for Xavier Hall on October 23, 1937.

      3. The finished Library building, later renamed Xavier Hall.

      4. The Library reading room.

      5. Exterior of Xavier Hall.

      6. The weather vane on Xavier Hall.

      7. Student workers bundling books in Xavier Hall for the move to Mortvedt Library.

      8. Students and faculty moving the books from Xavier Hall to Mortvedt Library.

      9. Vacant interior of the old library, after all the books were moved to Mortvedt Library.

      10. Renovation of Xavier in 2000.

      11. Renovation of Xavier in 2000.

      12. Renovation of Xavier in 2000.

      13. Renovation of Xavier in 2000.

      14. Johan U. Xavier, PLU resident theologian, professor, president, and namesake of Xavier Hall.
      
      See more images from the Archives collection.

   8. Golf Course and Athletic Fields

      The next tour stop is another outdoor athletic facility, the Golf Course and Athletic Fields. Unlike the Gymnasium and Tennis Courts, this one was purchased rather than built.
      
      Prior to being an actual golf course, this area was unofficially used for golf as early as 1914 when Ole Stuen and J.U. Xavier stomped down grass and arranged codfish cans for holes. The Parkland Golf Association was formed and a golf course opened in 1928 with nine holes. Another nine were added in 1929 due to its popularity. The depression severely impacted the organization and in 1937, PLU acquired the Golf Course from the Parkland Golf Course Association for $5,000.
      
      In 1948 nine of the holes were converted to athletic fields. The course had a clubhouse and living quarters which were occupied by various staff members over the years. These were removed when the Columbia Center was built in 1962.
      
      The PLU Golf Course closed on Monday, October 31, 2011, following a final tournament over the weekend. In 2016, PLU Meadows, a disc golf course, opened on the Golf Course grounds.
      
      Audio (2m53s, warning: distortions in recording)
      Long-time PLU employee Milton Nesvig speaking on the history of the Golf Course and Athletic Fields in 1975.
      

      Images

      1. A group of golfers with the University Golf Course sign.

      2. A group of golfers enjoying a game.

      3. A golfer putts on the green.

      4. A view of the University Golf Course.

      5. Aerial view of the University Golf Course and Athletic Fields.
      
      See more images from the Archives collection.

   9. Ivy Court

      The ninth stop is the first residence hall on the PLU campus, Ivy Hall. Again this was a building that was acquired, not built. It along with Clover Creek Hall were portable units acquired from the federal government.
      
      Originally called the White Dorm, Ivy Hall was one of several portable buildings acquired from the government program to aid veterans’ education in 1946. It was brought from Paine Field in Everett along with Clover Creek Hall for student housing. In 1951 it was renamed Ivy Hall, then Ivy Court in 1959 when it was refurbished and several new wings were added. Over the years Ivy Hall was a men only hall as well as a women only hall, in addition to being home to various academic departments until it was razed in 1985.
      
      Audio (56s, warning: distortions in recording)
      Long-time PLU employee Milton Nesvig speaking on the history of Ivy Court in 1975.
      

      Images

      1. An exterior view of Ivy Court.

      2. Another view of Ivy Court.

      3. Demolition of Ivy Court.
      
      See more images from the Archives collection.

   10. Clover Creek Hall

       Clover Creek Hall, the tenth stop, goes along with Ivy Court, the ninth. They were the first residence halls on the PLU campus.
       
       Known as the Blue Dorm when it was acquired in 1946, this portable building was renamed Clover Creek Hall in 1951. Along with Ivy Hall, it was obtained as student housing from the government program to aid veterans’ education and brought to PLU from Paine Field in Everett. It was razed in 1965.
       
       Audio (47s, warning: distortions in recording)
       Long-time PLU employee Milton Nesvig speaking on the history of Clover Creek Hall in 1975.
       

       Images

       1. Students in Clover Creek Hall.

       2. Students in Clover Creek Hall.

   11. Ramstad Hall

       The next stop is Ramstad Hall, notable for being the first campus building to be dedicated to particular academic disciplines, the sciences. Ramstad Hall is an example of the post-war expansion of PLU’s campus.
       
       Ramstad Hall was built as Science Hall in 1947, designed by Lea, Pearson & Richards. Whereas Memorial Gymnasium could be seen as a replacement for the performance and athletic space lost with the Gymnasium fire of June 1946, Science Hall would provide for the missing science area in the basement of that building. Science Hall was renamed Ramstad Hall in honor of Anders Ramstad, a professor of chemistry from 1925 to 1961.
       
       A new wing was added in 1959, and a major renovation designed by Michael Fogde and Ted A. Werner was undertaken in 1985. That same year saw the end of Ramstad Hall’s use for science work, which moved to the newly completed Rieke Science Center. In the years since Ramstad Hall has been home to nursing, psychology, and various student services offices.
       
       Audio (49s)
       Long-time PLU employee Milton Nesvig speaking on the history of Ramstad Hall in 1975.
       

       Images

       1. Anders Ramstad breaking ground for Ramstad Hall.

       2. Science Hall cornerstone laying.

       3. Exterior view of Science Hall, now known as Ramstad Hall.

       4. Exterior view of Science Hall, now known as Ramstad Hall.

       6. The construction of the Science Hall addition began in June 1958.

       6. The construction of the Science Hall addition began in June 1958.

       7. Renovated Ramstad Hall.

       8. Anders Ramstad, professor of chemistry from 1925 to 1961 and namesake of Ramstad Hall.
       
       See more images from the Archives collection.

   12. Classroom Building

       Stop 12 on the Campus History Tour is the Classroom Building, or Student Union Building. It was built as a multi-purpose facility, and is another example of the post-war expansion of the campus.
       
       The Classroom Building was first known as the Student Union Building or SUB, and was built in 1947 on the foundation of the Gymnasium that burned down in 1946. Designed by architects Lea, Pearson and Richards, it had classrooms, offices, an auditorium, stage, coffee shop, bookstore, lounge, and games room. It was renamed the Classroom Building in 1955 when the College Union Building (Ingram Hall) was built and razed in 1969.
       Audio (4m24s, warning: distortions in recording)
       Long-time PLU employee Milton Nesvig speaking on the history of the Classroom Building/Student Union Building in 1975.
       

       Images

       1. Many gather for a speech during the cornerstone laying of the Student Union Building, later renamed the Classroom Building.
       
       2. HL Foss, Reverend Carl Rydell, President Eastvold, and unidentified at the cornerstone laying for the Student Union Building.

       2. Exterior view of the Classroom Building.

       3. Another view of the Classroom Building.

       4. Student Union Building Bookstore.

       5. Students relax in the lounge area of the Student Union Building.

       6. The Classroom Building was demolished to make room for the construction of the University Center.
       
       See more images from the Archives collection.

   13. Memorial Gymnasium and Names Fitness Center

       The thirteenth tour stop is Memorial Gymnasium, named in honor of students who served in World War II. Like its fellow Upper Campus buildings of the post-war expansion, it was built in 1947.
       
       Memorial Gymnasium was designed by Lea, Pearson & Richards. Although already in the planning stages, its construction became a necessity when the old gym burned to the ground in June of 1946. 
       
       One of the most modern gyms of its type, Memorial Gymnasium was built of reinforced concrete with room for 3,500 (or 2,500 spectators in bleachers with a 50 x 90 foot playing floor). The building also had classrooms and dressing rooms and showers for men and women. The lettered glass panes on either side of the front originally spelled “PLC,”  and according to legend were simply rotated to the current “PLU” to save money.
       
       In 1984 the Names Fitness Center was added to Memorial Gymnasium. This addition was designed by architect N. Arrison and named for its primary funders Scott and Sis Names of Tacoma.
       
       Audio (5m21s)
       Long-time PLU employee  Milton Nesvig speaking in 1975 on the history of the Memorial Gymnasium including sports memories and personal anecdotes.
       

       Images

       1. The groundbreaking ceremony for Memorial Gymnasium.

       2. Exterior view of Memorial Gymnasium.

       3. Exterior view of Memorial Gymnasium.

       4. Exterior view of Memorial Gymnasium.

       5. Faculty and graduates process from Upper Campus to Lower Campus towards Memorial Gymnasium as part of the 1957 Commencement ceremonies.

       6. Memorial Gymnasium exterior.

       7. A group crosses Lower Campus to reach Memorial Gymnasium.

       8. Color postcard of Memorial Gymnasium, published by the Ellis Post Card Company of Arlington, Washington.

       9. Commencement held in Memorial Gymnasium. The building served as the venue for large events on campus.

       10. Names Fitness Center, added in 1984.

       11. Students working out in Names Fitness Center.
       
       See more images from the Archives collection.

   14. Sewage Plant

       The next stop, the Sewage Plant, is another example of the post-war expansion. The utilitarian needs of the institution are just as important for its function as its academic and athletics facilities, and the Sewage Plant was a vital part of meeting those needs.
       
       Prior to being connected to the sewer system in 1984, PLU treated its own sewage on campus in the Sewage Plant. It was built in 1947 and expanded over the years to meet needs. The Sewage Plant was razed in 1984.
       Audio (1m29s)
       Long-time PLU employee Milton Nesvig speaking on the history of the Sewage Plant in 1975.
       
       Images

       1. A worker outside the Sewage Plant.

       2. Sewage Plant exterior.

       3. Sewage Plant demolition.
       
       See more images from the Archives collection.

   15. Karen Hille Phillips Center for the Performing Arts

       Stop 15 is another multi-purpose facility,the Chapel-Music-Speech building, which would change its name several times over the years. As the original name suggests, it served spiritual and academic purposes. Like the previous few stops, this is another part of the postwar campus expansion.
       
       Karen Hille Phillips Center for Performing Arts is the third name of this building, which began as the Chapel-Music-Speech building in 1952 after breaking ground in 1949. It held a large chapel/auditorium that seated 1200 and a smaller devotional chapel for 75 under the 150 foot spire. The Chapel-Music-Speech Building was renamed Eastvold Chapel in 1962 in honor of president Seth Eastvold, who held the office from 1942 to 1963.
       
       The current name is in honor of donor Karen Hille Philips, PLU’s most generous benefactress in its history. Ms. Phillips’s $10 million dollar bequest and the gifts of other donors funded a major renovation from 2010 to 2013, when the facility reopened under its new name.
       
       Audio (6m06s)
       Long-time PLU employee Milton Nesvig speaking in 1975 on the history of the Karen Hille Phillips Center (then known as Eastvold Chapel).
       

       Images

       1. JP Pflueger, TO Karl, Gunnar Malmin, and President Seth Eastvold at the groundbreaking for the Chapel-Music-Speech Building.

       2. Construction of the Chapel-Music-Speech Building.

       3. Construction of the Chapel-Music-Speech Building.

       4. Construction of the Chapel-Music-Speech Building.

       5. Construction of the Chapel-Music-Speech Building.

       6. Construction of the Auditorium in the Chapel-Music-Speech Building.

       7. Plastering the walls in the Chapel-Music-Speech Building.

       8. Construction of the Chapel-Music-Speech Building.

       9. Chapel-Music-Speech Building classroom.

       10. Chapel-Music-Speech Building practice rooms

       11. Chapel of the Chapel-Music-Speech Building.

       12. View of the Chapel-Music-Speech Building from the front (west).

       13. Aerial view of campus from the 1950s.
       
       See more images from the Archives collection.

   16. Hong Hall

       Hong Hall, the next stop, is the first of a set of three residence halls from the postwar campus expansion. Unlike the previously mentioned Ivy and Clover Creek Halls, Hong and its sibling halls were built rather than acquired. These residence halls, the Karen Hille Phillips Center, and Ingram Hall (or the College Union Building) show campus spreading westward after its initial clustering near Park Avenue.
       
       Hong Hall was completed in 1954 as a men’s dormitory and known as North Hall. It was renamed in 1966 in honor of Nils Hong, English professor, who served as president from 1898 to 1918. Designed by Lea, Pearson, and Richards, it was part of the large post World War II expansion that also included West Hall (Kreidler Hall) and South Hall (Hinderlie Hall).
       
       Audio (3m08s)
       Long-time PLU employee Milton Nesvig speaking in 1975 on the history of the Hinderlie, Hong, and Kreidler Halls.
       

       Images

       1. A crowd gathered for the dedication of North Hall

       2. Construction of North Hall, later known as Hong Hall.

       3. Students walk toward North Hall in 1955. North Hall was later renamed Hong Hall after Nils J. Hong

       4. Students stand outside the newly built North Hall.
       
       See more images from the Archives collection.

   17. Hinderlie Hall

       This stop, Hinderlie Hall, is one of three residence halls built on Upper Campus during the postwar expansion. It was completed the same year as Hong Hall, with Kreidler Hall following a few years later.
       
       Originally named South Hall when it was completed in 1954 as a women’s dormitory, Hinderlie Hall was renamed in 1966 to honor Berent and Ragna Hinderlie. The Hinderlies were long time PLU employees who retired in 1954, Berent as a custodian and Ragna in the laundry room and cook. Though it opened as women only, Hinderlie Hall housed men during the 1980s and went coed in 1993. Like its siblings West Hall (Kreidler Hall) and North Hall (Hong Hall), Hinderlie Hall was designed by Tacoma architecture firm Lea, Pearson, and Richards.
       Audio (3m08s)
       Long-time PLU employee Milton Nesvig speaking in 1975 on the history of the Hinderlie, Hong, and Kreidler Halls.
       
       

       Images

       1. President Eastvold, Phillip Hauge, and others at the groundbreaking for South Hall, later renamed Hinderlie Hall after Berent and Ragna.

       2. Hinderlie Hall under construction. 

       3. Hinderlie Hall under construction.

       4. Hinderlie Hall under construction, seen from Foss Field.

       5. Hinderlie Hall under construction.

       6. A couple of students stand outside of the new Hinderlie Hall in 1954.

       7. Students leaving Hinderlie Hall.
       
       See more images from the Archives collection.
       

   18. Ingram Hall

       The 18th stop, Ingram Hall, is the furthest south Upper Campus would expand for decades. As other buildings allowed academic and spiritual activities to move out from Harstad Hall, Ingram Hall did the same for food service. Coming as it did 10 years after the end of World War II, Ingram Hall is another example of the postwar growth of campus.
       
       Ingram Hall was initially built as the College Union Building in 1955 and later renamed Aida Ingram Hall in honor of the wife of Charles Ingram, a PLU benefactor. The original building was designed by Lea, Pearson, and Richards and housed a coffee shop, cafeteria, bookstore, lounges, and student government and publication offices. Additions were made in 1960 and 1972, expanding the building’s function to include classrooms, offices, and a large lecture hall. The construction of the University Center in 1972 eliminated the need for the cafeteria and bookstore in Ingram Hall and allowed the Nursing and Art Departments to move in. Nursing later moved to Ramstad Hall and Ingram Hall is today synonymous with the Arts, housing the University Gallery in addition to offices and classrooms.
       
       Audio (7m35s)
       Long-time PLU employee Milton Nesvig speaking in 1975 on the history of Ingram Hall. He covers the inspiration for its construction and some personal anecdotes.
       

       Images

       1. Cornerstone ceremony for the College Union Building, later renamed Aida Ingram Hall.

       2. College Union Building under construction. 

       3. College Union Building under construction. 

       4. College Union Building under construction seen from 121st Street.

       5. Students shop for books in the College Union bookstore, January 20, 1956.

       6. Students crowd the dining room of the College Union Building in 1955.

       7. November 16, 1955, students relax in the coffee shop located in the College Union Building.

       8. Students are seen in the lounge of the College Union Building.

       9. The fountain of the College Union Building, removed during renovation.

       10. Charles Ingram, Clayton Peterson, and Dan Leasure at the dedication of Aida Ingram Hall.
       
       See more images from the Archives collection.

   19. Health Center

       Stop 19 on the Campus History Tour is the Health Center. This former residence is an acquisition, rather than a university-built structure. It was the first of several houses on the West side of 121st Street South that PLU would come to own.
       
       Obtained by the university in 1956, the Health Center was built in 1948 as a home by Donald Eastvold, son of president Seth Eastvold. This building first served as a home for the president from its acquisition until 1961 when the Tenquist home (Nesvig Alumni Center) was obtained and the president moved there. From 1961 to 1966 Clayton Peterson, the vice president for development, lived there. It was then converted to a combination Health Center and offices for the Lutheran Institute for Theological Education (LITE). LITE departed in 1988 and the Health Center has been solely a medical building.
       

       Images

       1. A view of the Health Center when it was still a residence.

       2. The exterior of the Health Center.

       3. The reception area of the Health Center.

       4. Health Center staff standing outside near the sign.
       
       

       See more images from the Archives collection.

   20. Kreidler Hall

       The next tour stop is Kreidler Hall, the third of the three postwar Upper Campus residence halls. It would be the final residence hall of the 1950s and its completion marks the end of the construction of student housing on Upper Campus for nearly a decade.
       
       Renamed in 1966 in honor of Lora B. Kreidler, Dean of Women and Art Professor from 1921 to 1943, Kreidler Hall began its life as West Hall when it was completed in 1957. Kreidler Hall was the third dormitory built on campus following the construction of North Hall (Hong Hall) and South Hall (Hinderlie Hall) in 1954, all of which were designed by Tacoma architecture firm Lea, Pearson and Richards.
       
       Audio (3m08s)
       Long-time PLU employee Milton Nesvig speaking in 1975 on the history of the Hinderlie, Hong, and Kreidler Halls.
       
       

       Images

       1. May 27, 1956, a crowd gathers for the cornerstone laying ceremony for West Hall, now called Kreidler Hall in honor of Lora B. Kreidler.
       2. President Eastvold and Pastor Molter participate in the ceremonial cornerstone laying for West Hall.

       3. Construction site of West Hall.

       4. Students stand under the trees in front of West Hall.

       5. Lora Kreidler, art professor, Dean of Women, and namesake of Kreidler Hall.
       
       

       See more images from the Archives collection.

   21. The Kiosk

       Stop 21 is not a building, but a campus news center called the Kiosk. The most sculptural of PLU’s built structures, it sat right in the center of the four core buildings of Upper Campus at the time: Ramstad Hall, Harstad Hall, Xavier Hall, and the Karen Hille Phillips Center.
       
       Inspired by a trip to Europe, president Eastvold envisioned a bulletin board in the middle of campus. For this purpose John Richards of Lea, Pearson and Richards designed the Kiosk, which was completed in 1957 and featured eight bulletin boards. It was jokingly referred to as “the launching pad” until it was demolished in 1966.
       Audio (1m18s)
       Long-time PLU employee Milton Nesvig speaking on the history of the Kiosk in 1975.
       

       Images

       1. The Kiosk and Eastvold Auditorium. 

       2. Students at the Kiosk with Xavier in the background.

       3. The Kiosk.

       4. People enjoying the sun at the Kiosk with Ramstad Hall in the background.

       5. The Kiosk decorated for Christmas.

       6. Demolition of the Kiosk.

       7. Demolition of the Kiosk.
       
       

       See more images from the Archives collection.

   22. Outdoor Swimming Pool

       The next Campus History Tour stop is the Outdoor Swimming Pool, a temporary structure that would be replaced later by a bigger, permanent building.
       
       In 1958 President Eastvold and Enga Eastvold celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary and their 15th anniversary at PLU. To honor the event they gifted an in-ground outdoor swimming pool to the university. Forty feet wide, twenty feet wide, and nine feet deep, the pool was surrounded by a chain link fence and had a bubble-shaped plastic roof that could be erected around it during bad weather. It was known as Seth’s Pool and was removed when the Swimming Pool was built on Lower Campus in 1965.
       

       Audio (1m47s)
       Long-time PLU employee Milton Nesvig speaking in 1975 on the history of the Outdoor Swimming Pool including some personal anecdotes.
       
       Images

       1. Seth and Enga Eastvold at the dedication of the swimming pool.

       2. Milton Nesvig, T.O. Karl, and Pat Thompson don old time swimsuits for the Swimming Pool dedication.

       3. Seth and Enga Eastvold at the dedication of the Swimming Pool.

       4. Students standing near the Swimming Pool with its cover on.

       5. Students near the Swimming Pool.
       
       See more images from the Archives collection.

   23. Hauge Administration Building (Philip Hauge Administration)

       This tour stop is another multi-purpose facility, the Hauge Administration Building. It is multi-purpose in that although “administration” is in the name, this building also houses many classrooms and academic offices.
       
       Originally named the Tacoma-Pierce Administration Building when it was built in 1960, it was renamed in honor of Philip E. Hauge, who served as dean, registrar, academic vice president, and professor from 1920 to 1968, then as university archivist from 1968 to 1976.
       
       The Hauge Administration Building was designed by Tacoma architecture firm Lea, Pearson, and Richards, like many Upper Campus buildings. This building houses administrative offices such as the president, provost, and business office, as well as faculty offices and classrooms.
       Audio (1m12s)
       Long-time PLU employee Milton Nesvig speaking in 1975 on the history of the Hauge Administration Building.
       

       Images

       1. President Eastvold and Phillip Hauge at the groundbreaking for the Tacoma-Pierce Administration Building.

       2. Construction begins on the new Tacoma-Pierce Administration Building, later renamed the Hauge Administration Building.

       3. Construction begins on the new Tacoma-Pierce Administration Building.

       4. Building the Tacoma-Pierce Administration Building.

       5. A crane at the Tacoma-Pierce Administration Building construction site.

       6. Students outside the Tacoma-Pierce Administration Building.

       7. Tacoma-Pierce Administration Building.

       8. Students and others walking in front of the Tacoma-Pierce Administration Building.

       9. The Tacoma-Pierce Administration Building in 1960.

       10. Foyer of the Tacoma-Pierce Administration Building, 1960.

       11. View of the Samuelson Chapel inside the Tacoma-Pierce Administration Building.

       12. Staff members at work in the Tacoma Pierce Administration Building business office, 1960.

       13. Students use the language lab in the Tacoma-Pierce Administration Building in 1960.

       14. Aerial view of Hauge Administration Building. 

       15. Phillip Hauge, dean, registrar, academic vice president, and professor from 1920 to 1968, then as university archivist from 1968 to 1976. Hauge Administration Building is named in his honor.
       
       

       See more images from the Archives collection.

   24. Nesvig Alumni Center

       Tour stop 24 is the Nesvig Alumni Center, which, like the Health Center, was first a residence before being acquired by PLU.
       
       Originally built as a private home by John Tenquist in 1954, PLU obtained the house in 1961. It served as the president’s residence from its acquisition until the Gonyea House was donated in 1971 and the president moved there. 
       
       The Alumni Center was renamed in 1980 to the Nesvig Alumni Center in honor of Milton Nesvig, a PLU graduate and administrator who served in various roles including public relations, alumni, archivist, and vice president from 1947 to 1987.
       

       Images

       1. Exterior of the Alumni Center before it was renamed Nesvig Alumni Center.

       2. Milton and Hazel Nesvig, namesakes of the Nesvig Alumni Center. Milton, or "Milt," was a PLU graduate, administrator, vice president, and archivist from 1947 to 1987.
       
       

       See more images from the Archives collection.

   25. Evergreen Court and Delta Hall

       The next stop encompasses two buildings, Evergreen Court and Delta Hall. Like Ivy Court and Clover Creek Hall, the other Lower Campus student housing, Evergreen Court and Delta Hall were small, one story buildings, quite different from the residence halls of today’s campus.
       
       Evergreen Court was a twenty unit motel style residence hall built in 1961. In 1962 Delta Hall, a similar building, was built beside Evergreen Court in 1962. Both were razed in 1999 to make room for the construction of South Hall.
       
       Audio (45s)
       Long-time PLU employee Milton Nesvig speaking briefly on the history of Evergreen Court and Delta Hall in 1975.
       

       Images

       1. Evergreen Court under construction.

       2. Students help arrange the furniture at Evergreen Court.

       3. Evergreen Court exterior.

       4. Students outside Delta Hall.
       5. Delta Hall exterior.
       
       See more images from the Archives collection.

   26. Pflueger Hall

       The Campus History Tour’s 26th stop is Pflueger Hall, the first large residence hall on Lower Campus. It was also the first major construction on Lower Campus since the 1947 building of Memorial Gymnasium. Pflueger Hall marks the beginning of the Lower Campus buildup that occurred throughout the 1960s.
       
       Pflueger Hall, built in 1962, was named in honor of Dr. Jesse P. Pflueger, who grew up in Old Main (Harstad Hall) and served as professor of religion and philosophy from 1930 to 1958. Before its dedication, was called Alpha Hall was a men’s only dormitory. Like its sibling building Foss Hall and many other campus buildings from the era, it was designed by Tacoma architecture firm Lea, Pearson and Richards.
       
       The area where Pflueger Hall is located was a small farm and orchard prior to construction. The house was moved and the trees cleared to make room for Pflueger Hall.
       

       Images

       1. President Eastvold and others at the Pflueger Hall groundbreaking.

       2. Pflueger Hall under construction.

       3. Pflueger Hall and the Columbia Center (foreground) under construction.

       4. Another view of Pflueger Hall under construction.

       5. Pflueger Hall under construction.

       6. Trucks parked at the Pflueger Hall construction site.

       7. Pflueger Hall under construction.

       8. Students play basketball outside Pflueger Hall.

       9. Students sunbathing on the Pflueger Hall roof deck.

       10. Students beside Clover Creek enjoying the sunny weather with Pflueger and Tingelstad Halls in the background.

       11. Jesse P. Pflueger, professor of religion and philosophy from 1930 to 1958, and namesake of Pflueger Hall.
       
       See more images from the Archives collection.

   27. Columbia Center

       The next tour stop, the Columbia Center, is a multi-purpose facility like many others on campus, but unique in that it was at the time of its construction multi-audience as well. This was due to its public availability as a coffee shop and pro shop for the golfers using the University Golf Course.
       
       Built in 1962 as a student cafeteria, bakery, coffee shop, and golf pro shop, the Columbia Center replaced the old golf course clubhouse. Its name is in honor of Columbia College, a Lutheran college in Everett that merged with PLU (then PLA) in 1920. The building was designed by Johnson, Austin & Associates, a Tacoma firm that still exists under the name AustinCina Architects.
       

       Images

       1. Joe Greco, President Eastvold, and Florence Quest stand with shovels ready at the groundbreaking ceremony for the Columbia Center.

       2. Construction of the Columbia Center.

       3. Construction of the Columbia Center.

       4. Columbia Center dining room. 

       5. Columbia Center kitchen.

       6. Columbia Center kitchen.

       7. Coffee shop in the Columbia Center by the golf course.

       8. Coffee shop in the Columbia Center by the golf course.

       9. Columbia Center exterior.

       10. The old College Golf Course pro shop that was demolished for the Columbia Center’s construction.

       11. Rear view of the old College Golf Course pro shop that was demolished for the Columbia Center’s construction.
       
       

       See more images from the Archives collection.

   28. Foss Hall

       Stop 28 is Foss Hall, the sibling residence hall to Pflueger Hall. Foss Hall was the second of three large student housing buildings on Lower Campus, followed by Tingelstad Hall in 1967.
       
       Built in 1965, Foss Hall was named in honor of Halfdan L. Foss, bishop of the North Pacific District of the American Lutheran Church from 1932 to 1965 and longtime chair of PLU’s board of regents. Like its sibling building Pflueger Hall and many other campus buildings from the era, it was designed by Tacoma architecture firm Lea, Pearson and Richards. Foss Hall was razed in 2023.
       
       Audio (44s)
       Long-time PLU employee Milton Nesvig gives a brief history of Foss Hall in 1975.
       

       Images

       1. Clover Creek seen in foreground, while in the space in the background is the Foss Hall construction site.

       2. Clover Creek once ran through lower campus but has since been diverted. Foss Hall construction site seen at right.

       3. Construction of Foss Hall.

       4. Foss Hall seen during its construction.

       5. Foss Hall under construction with basketball courts in the foreground and Hinderlie Hall in the background.

       6. Foss Hall construction.

       7. Foss Hall front desk.

       8. Foss Hall lounge.

       9. Students horsing around at Clover Creek with Foss Hall in the background.

       10. Foss Hall during a high water period.

       11. A student crosses the bridge over Clover Creek.

       12. Two students sit near fire pit behind Foss Hall. Pflueger Hall in the background.

       13. Students tossing a frisbee in front of Foss Hall.

       14. Halfdan L. and Elise Foss at the dedication of Foss Hall. Halfdan Foss, bishop of the North Pacific District of the American Lutheran Church from 1932 to 1965 and longtime chair of PLU’s board of regents, is the namesake of Foss Hall.
       
       See more images from the Archives collection.

   29. Swimming Pool

       The next tour stop is the Swimming Pool, the second swimming pool of the tour. Unlike the Upper Campus pool, this one would be indoors and competition-sized. Its construction on the South side of Memorial Gym represents a continued push in that direction as Lower Campus grew.
       
       Designed by noted Tacoma architect Robert Billsbrough Price, the Swimming Pool was completed in 1965. It was funded through student pledges and assessments.
       
       Audio (20s)
       Long-time PLU employee Milton Nesvig speaking on the history of the Swimming Pool in 1975.
       

       Images

       1. Construction of the Swimming Pool.

       2. Construction of the Swimming Pool.

       3. Pouring concrete during construction of the Swimming Pool.

       4. Building walls and roof of the Swimming Pool.

       5. Putting in the floor of the Swimming Pool.

       6. Swimming Pool partially completed.

       7. Construction of the Swimming Pool.

       8. Construction of the Swimming Pool.

       9. Construction of the Swimming Pool.

       10. Swimming pool exterior.
       
       See more images from the Archives collection.

   30. Stuen Hall

       Stuen Hall is the 30th stop on the Campus History Tour and the first construction on Upper Campus since the completion of the Hauge Administration building in 1960. Stuen was also the first residence hall built on Upper Campus since Kreidler Hall in 1957 as student housing expanded on Lower Campus in the interim.
       
       Stuen Hall, built in 1966, and named after professor Ole J. Stuen, a longtime faculty member who worked at PLU from 1913 until his death in 1952. Stuen’s wife Agnes Hougen, was also a teacher at PLU. The building site of Stuen Hall was cleared by burning the old family homes of the Xavier and Stuen families as practice for the fire department. Stuen Hall was designed by Tacoma firm Lea, Pearson and Richards, like many other campus buildings of the era.
       Audio (1m43s)
       Long-time PLU employee Milton Nesvig speaking in 1975 on the history of Stuen and Ordal Halls.
       
       

       Images

       1. Stuen Hall construction.

       2. Stuen Hall construction.

       3. Front desk of Stuen Hall with housemother and student.

       4. View of the west side of Stuen Hall.

       5. The Stuen and Xavier houses are seen here at 121st and Yakima, future site of Stuen Hall.

       6. The Stuen and Xavier houses are razed to make way for construction of Stuen Hall. 

       7. Ole J. Stuen, a faculty member from 1913 until his death in 1952 and namesake of Stuen Hall.
       
       See more images from the Archives collection.

   31. Tingelstad Hall

       The next tour stop is Tingelstad Hall, the last of the three Lower Campus residence halls built during the 1960s. Unique among all PLU buildings, Tingelstad Hall is a high rise that towers over campus and the surrounding community.
       
       Tingelstad Hall was built in 1967 and named for Oscar Tingelstad, PLU president from 1928 to 1943. It was designed by Robert Billsborough Price as a men only dormitory, who also designed the Swimming Pool and Olson Gymnasium.
       
       The original plan was to build several smaller dormitory buildings, but the property to the east could not be obtained so a high rise was built instead.
       
       Audio (42s)
       Long-time PLU employee Milton Nesvig speaking on the history of Tingelstad Halls in 1975.
       

       Images

       1. Construction of Tingelstad Hall, 1967.

       2. Tingelstad Hall exterior.

       3. Interior view of Tingelstad Hall.

       4. Students in the Tingelstad Hall lounge.

       5. View of Tingelstad Hall in 1968.

       6. The sign for Tingelstad Hall seen by night.

       7. Oscar Tingelstad, PLU president and namesake of Tingelstad Hall.
       
       See more images from the Archives collection.

   32. Ordal Hall

       Ordal Hall, the sibling residence hall to Stuen Hall, is the 32nd stop on the tour. It holds the distinction of being the last student housing built during the 20th century.
       
       Completed in 1967, Ordal Hall is named for Ola Ordal, PLU president from 1921 to 1928. Ordal Hall was designed by Tacoma firm Lea, Pearson and Richards, like many other campus buildings of the era.
       Audio (1m43s)
       Long-time PLU employee Milton Nesvig speaking on the history of Stuen and Ordal Halls in 1975.
       

       Images

       1. Ordal Hall under construction.

       2. Ordal Hall under construction.

       3. Bricklaying on Ordal Hall.

       4. Ordal Hall lounge.

       5. Ordal Hall front desk.

       6. Ordal Hall exterior.

       7. Phillip Hauge speaking at the Ordal Hall dedication.

       8. PLU president Ola Ordal, namesake of Ordal Hall
       
       See more images from the Archives collection.

   33. Robert A.L. Mortvedt Library

       The next tour stop is the Robert A.L. Mortvedt Library. With the growth of the institution a new library was needed and this building’s completion marked the end of Xavier Hall’s role as campus library.
       
       Built in 1967 with two of its eventual three floors, Mortvedt Library was named in honor of PLU president Robert A.L. Mortvedt, who served from 1962 to 1969. To move the books to the new library from Xavier Hall, the library closed at noon on December 2nd (a Friday). Student shelvers spent the weekend rubber-banding bundles of books together and labeling them. Morning classes were canceled on Monday and despite the rain, students and faculty carried bundles of books across and put them on the correct shelves. Head Librarian Frank Haley provided candy for all. The vice presidents and administrators later that day removed the rubber bands.
       
       The third floor was added in 1986-1987 and designed by the URS Architecture, whereas architects from Bindon & Wright designed the original building. In addition to Library Services, Mortvedt Library is home to PLU’s first data center (a second was added when the Morken Center was built), Instructional Technology (formerly known as Media Services), the Center for Academic Support, and the Archives.
       

       Images

       1. President Mortvedt and others at the groundbreaking for Mortvedt Library.

       2. Closure of Wheeler Street for library construction.

       3. Mortvedt Library Construction.

       4. Mortvedt Library Construction.

       5. Mortvedt Library Construction.

       6. Mortvedt Library Construction.

       7. Mortvedt Library Construction.

       8. View from the second floor of Mortvedt library during construction.

       9. A crane placing the entry of the Mortvedt Library.

       10. Band playing for the students moving books from the old library (now Xavier Hall) to Mortvedt Library.

       11. Students moving books to new library.

       12. Completed Mortvedt Library.

       13. Construction of the third floor of the Mortvedt Library.

       14. Mortvedt Library Construction.

       15. Mortvedt Library Construction.

       16. South view of the library. 

       17. PLU president Robert Mortvedt, namesake of Mortvedt Library.
       
       

       See more images from the Archives collection.

       
       

   34. Olson Gymnasium and Auditorium

       The 34th stop on the Campus History Tour is Olson Gymnasium and Auditorium. This building would be the largest on campus and PLU’s furthest expansion to the west until the 1980s.
       
       Olson Gymnasium and Auditorium was completed in 1969 and named for Clifford Olson, coach and athletic director from 1929 to 1948. It was built in response to the increasing needs of the growing campus to host large athletic, arts, and academic events. Like Tingelstad Hall and the Swimming Pool, Robert Billsbrough Price designed this building. Audio (1m12s)
       Long-time PLU employee Milton Nesvig speaking on the history of Olson Gymnasium and Auditorium in 1975.
       

       Images

       1. President Mortvedt speaking at the Olson Gymnasium and Auditorium groundbreaking.

       2. Construction site for Olson Auditorium, built in 1969 and named for long-time coach and athletic director Clifford O. Olson.

       3. Olson Gymnasium and Auditorium construction.

       4. Crane working at the Olson Gymnasium and Auditorium construction.

       5. Crane working at the Olson Gymnasium and Auditorium construction.

       6. A truck parked outside the Olson Gymnasium and Auditorium as it goes up.

       7. Construction of the gymnasium/auditorium.

       8. Laying the floor in the gymnasium/auditorium.

       9. Olson Gymnasium and Auditorium seen from 124th Street.

       10. Clifford Olson, coach and athletic director from 1929 to 1948, and namesake of Olson Gymnasium and Auditorium.
       
       See more images from the Archives collection.

   35. Anderson University Center

       The Anderson University Center is the next stop, which replaced the student services (dining, bookstore, and so on) provided in Ingram Hall, which had previously been a replacement for the services of Harstad Hall. This was a unique building on campus at the time it was built because it spanned Upper and Lower Campus.
       
       The Anderson University Center, originally known as just “the University Center,” was completed in 1970 after 6 years of planning and 15 months of construction. It was designed by Bindon and Wright and built on the grounds of the razed Student Union Building. A house occupied by Chemistry professor Robert Olson was moved from the area down the hill in order to make room for construction. The new building offered offices for ASPLU, student lounges, dining facilities, billiards, and a bowling alley.
       
       The Anderson Clock Tower was erected in 1972 and named in honor of the parents of alumnus and board member Herman Anderson. The Scandinavian Cultural Center, designed by Tsang Partnership, was added in 1989, with its iconic longship prow following in 1992. A major remodel was completed in 2007, expanding the dining hall, adding new meeting spaces and gathering spaces, and new offices for Student Life, ASPLU, Student Media, and Campus Ministry. In 2012 the University Center was rededicated as the Anderson University Center to honor PLU president Loren Anderson, who served from 1992 to 2012.
       

       Images

       1. Concrete pumping during the construction of the University Center, later renamed the Anderson University Center.

       2. The University Center under construction.

       3. The University Center under construction, Tingelstad and Pflueger Halls in the background.

       4. The University Center under construction.

       5. Crane working at the University Center construction site.

       6. Construction of the dining hall in the University Center.

       7. Construction of the roof of the University Center.

       8. The University Center construction site with Harstad Hall and the Trinity Lutheran belltower in the background.

       9. Students looking out over Lower Campus from the University Center deck.

       10. The University Center stairway and information desk.

       11. The University Center bowling alley (removed during renovation).

       12. The University Center billiards area.

       13. The University Center food service area.

       14. The University Center bookstore.

       15. The University Center dining hall.

       16. President Rieke playing minigolf in the University Center atrium. Rick Eastman seen squatting and Donal Jerke at right.

       17. View of Tingelstad Hall, Columbia Center, Pflueger Hall, and the University Center.

       18. The University Center seen from its downhill side.

       19. Upper Campus view of the University Center.

       20. The installation of the Anderson Clock Tower in 1972.

       21. The installation of the longship sculpture at the Scandinavian Cultural Center in 1992.

       22. PLU president Loren Anderson, namesake of the Anderson University Center.
       
       See more images from the Archives collection.

   36. Gonyea House

       The next tour stop, Gonyea House, served as the home of the university’s presidents for over four decades. While previous presidents’ homes were on campus or across the street, Gonyea House is several miles away as the crow flies and sits on grounds with expansive lawns and a pond.
       
       Built in 1940, this large colonial style house was the home of gifted to PLU in 1971 the Gonyea family to serve as the home of the university president.  President Wiegman, Kathleen Wiegman, and their six children moved to Gonyea House, permitting the former president’s house to become the Alumni Center. Subsequent presidents would live in and host events at the Gonyea House until Allan Belton, who chose to remain in his own home. 

       Images

       1. Front view of the Gonyea House.

       2. The back grounds of Gonyea House.

       3. Gonyea House seen during the winter.

       4. The sign for the Gonyea House seen in the winter.

       5. Gonyea House plaque reading "Dedicated in honor of Mr. and Mrs. J. Henry Gonyea June 27, 1971
       
       

       See more images from the Archives collection.

        

   37. University House

       The University House is the next tour stop. Like the Health Center and others that would follow, it began as a private home on 121st Street South. Unlike those others, the University House is not owned by PLU, but a dues-paying employees group.
       
       Built in 1957, the University House is the former home of Joe and Anna Enge, staff members in the maintenance and business officers, respectively. It was formerly known as the Faculty House and is owned by the University Scholars Association, a private, nonprofit corporation. The University Scholars Association runs programming, meal service, and happy hours for its members, made up of dues-paying members of the PLU community. 
       
       The University Scholars Association was founded in 1972 by Dr. Curtis Huber (philosophy), Dr. William Hutcheon (business), Charles Nelson (registrar), Dr. Richard Jungkuntz (provost), and Dr. Tony Lauer (business).  The association purchased the house from homeowner Cap Jacobs, a professor of physics.
       

       Images

       1. Faculty House exterior, later changed to University House.

       2. Faculty members playing ping pong in the University House garage.
       3. Opening of Faculty House 1979-1980.
       4. A barbecue in the back yard of the Faculty house.
       
       See more images from the Archives collection.

   38. Math Building

       Stop 38 on the Campus History Tour is the Math Building. Built beside Ivy Hall, this building was the southwesternmost expansion of campus until the construction of Keck Observatory in 1999.
       
       Built in 1978, the Math Building housed classrooms and offices for the math and computer science departments. The architect was Ted A. Werner, who also designed the Facilities Management complex. It was expanded in 1982 and 1984 then razed in the late 2000s.
       
       Images
       1. Front view of the Math Building.

       2. Rear view of the Math Building.
       
       See more images from the Archives collection.

   39. Knorr House

       The next stop, Knorr House, was the third private home on 121st Street South that became part of the PLU campus.
       
       Knorr House was the former home of E.C. Knorr, professor and dean of College of Arts and Sciences from 1949 to 1969. Adapted to house faculty offices in 1980, it was razed in 2006.
       

       Images

       1. Exterior of Knorr House.

       2. E.C. Knorr, professor and dean of College of Arts and Sciences from 1949 to 1969, and namesake of Knorr House.

   40. Human Resources House

       The 40th stop on the tour is the Human Resources House. As with the previous stop, Knorr House, the Human Resources House was formerly a private home. It was the second PLU building acquired on the east side of Park Avenue South following the acquisition of the Nesvig Alumni Center in 1961.
       
       The former home of 1930s PLU regent M.T. Hokenstad, the Human Resources House was acquired in 1981. Originally having the name and function of the Mailroom, it went on to house the department of Human Resources until that department moved to new office space in Garfield Station.
       

       Images

       1. The Human Resources House seen from 122nd Street South.

       2. The Human Resources House when it was known as Campus Mail.

   41. Facilities Management, Warehouse, Printing

       Facilities Management is the next stop on the tour. After many years of being spread around campus in sheds, Grounds, Maintenance, and other crews, got their own area for storing vehicles and tools. 
       
       Designed by architect Ted A. Werner, the Facilities Management, the Warehouse, and Printing buildings were built in 1982. The complex of several buildings houses maintenance, custodial, and printing services. Facilities Management was formerly known as Plant Services.
       

       Images

       1. The Facilities Management complex seen from above.

       2. Two staff members standing outside the Warehouse.

       3. The Facilities Management complex.

   42. Blomquist House

       On the corner of Yakima Avenue and 121st Street South is the Blomquist House, the 42nd stop on the Campus History Tour. This is the fourth house along this block that would become part of PLU’s campus.
       
       The Blomquist House has housed faculty offices since 1982. It is named in honor of Grace Blomquist, professor of English from 1939 to 1976.
       

       Images

       1. Blomquist House seen from across the Hauge Administration construction site.

       2. Blomquist House as seen in 2018.

       3. Grace Blomquist, professor of English from 1939 to 1976, and namesake of Blomquist House.

   43. Rieke Science Center

       The Rieke Science Center is the next stop on the tour. The second campus building dedicated to the sciences after Ramstad Hall, the Rieke Science Center sits opposite of Foss Hall over the large expanse of grass known as Foss Field, with Memorial Gymnasium forming the Eastern border.
       
       Rieke Science Center was built in 1985 and named for PLU president William O. Rieke, who served from 1975 to 1992. Designed by Portland architecture firm BOORA (Broome, Oringdulph, O’Toole, Rudolf, & Associates), it houses labs, classrooms, faculty offices, and the Leraas Lecture Hall.
       

       Images

       1. Concrete truck at the Rieke Science Center construction site on September 2, 1983.

       2. Rieke Science Center is seen under the early stages of construction.

       3. Construction of Rieke Science Center.

       4. Crane working on Rieke Science Center.

       5. Construction of Rieke Science Center.

       6. Construction of Rieke Science Center.

       7. Construction of Rieke Science Center.

       8. Construction of Rieke Science Center.

       9. Construction of Rieke Science Center.

       10. Construction of Rieke Science Center.

       11. Interior of Rieke Science Center.

       12. Jens Knudsen works on decorative wall for the Rieke Science Center.

       13. Interior view of the Leraas Lecture Hall during the Construction Rieke Science Center.

       14. View of the Olsen Lab in Rieke Science Center.

       15. Exterior View of the Rieke Science Center.

       16. PLU president Wiliam Rieke, namesake of Rieke Science Center.
       
       See more images from the Archives collection.

   44. Wang Center for Global Education

       The 44th stop on the Campus History Tour is the Wang Center for Global Education. Another private home which became part of PLU, the Wang Center is the farthest western extent of Upper Campus.
       
       Acquired in 1987 and originally known as the Rosso House, this house was remodeled in 1989 to house the Office of Graduate Studies. Following a donation from alumni Peter and Grace Wang, it was renamed the Wang Center in 2002 and its use changed to international programs.
       

       Images

       1. The Rosso House, prior to being renamed and repurposed as the Wang Center.

       2. Wang Center staff in 2013.

   45. Mary Baker Russell Music Center

       The next tour stop is the Mary Baker Russell Music Center. Like the Anderson University Center, this building connects Upper and Lower Campus. Unique on campus, the Mary Baker Russell Music Center’s amphitheater is PLU’s only dedicated outdoor performance space.
       
       Completed in 1994 and opened in 1995, the Mary Baker Russell Music Center was designed by architectural firm Zimmer Gunsul Frasca (ZGF) and named for Mary Baker Russell, who donated the majority of the funds for the building. The building houses the music department, practice rooms, and the Lagerquist Concert Hall, named for Margaret Lagerqist, wife of PLU regent George Lagerquist. The lobby features four sculptures by renowned glass artist Dale Chihuly and the Lagerquist Concert Hall is home to the Gottfried and Mary Fuchs Organ, built by local organmaker Paul Fritts.
       

       Images

       1. Mary Baker Russell and president Rieke at the groundbreaking ceremony for the Mary Baker Russell Music Center.

       2. Construction continues on the Mary Baker Russell Music Center

       3. The Mary Baker Russell Music Center is seen under construction in 1994.

       4. The Mary Baker Russell Music Center is seen under construction in 1994.

       5. Construction workers building the Mary Baker Russell Music Center.

       6. Construction of Mary Baker Russell Music Center.

       7. Construction of Mary Baker Russell Music Center.

       8. Construction of Mary Baker Russell Music Center.

       9. The Mary Baker Russell Music Center is seen under construction in 1994.

       10. Construction of Mary Baker Russell Music Center.

       11. The interior of the Mary Baker Russell Music Center is seen under construction. 

       12. The installation of the Gottfried and Mary Fuchs Organ in Lagerquist Concert Hall.

       13. The installation of the Gottfried and Mary Fuchs Organ in Lagerquist Concert Hall.

       14. Paul Fritts, builder of the Gottfried and Mary Fuchs Organ, with the organ under construction.

       15. Construction of Mary Baker Russell Music Center.

       16. The Mary Baker Russell Music Center amphitheater.

       17. Construction of Mary Baker Russell Music Center.

       18. Mary Baker Russell amphitheater with Dale Chihuly Roses.

       19. Namesake Mary Baker Russell (in hardhat) and others.
       
       See more images from the Archives collection.

   46. Keck Observatory

       The Keck Observatory is the next stop on the Campus History Tour. It is one of the two remaining campus buildings remaining on the south side of 124th Street South (all others but the Columbia Center have been razed.
       
       Built in 1999, the Keck Observatory was funded through a gift from the W.M. Keck Foundation. It features multiple telescopes under a 17 foot retractable dome.
       

       Images

       1. Exterior of Keck Observatory.

       2. Physics professor and provost Steve Starkovich adjusts the telescope at the Keck Observatory on the sun to see Venus' transit.

   47. South Hall

       The first building of the 21st century is the next tour stop, South Hall. South Hall was the first student housing built since Ordal Hall was completed in 1967. Not counting Gonyea House, South Hall is the easternmost building of PLU’s campus.
       
       The second building to be named South Hall (the original name of Hinderlie Hall), this residence hall opened in 2000 as apartment-style housing for upper class and married students. It was built on the former site of Delta Hall and Evergreen Court and designed by MITHUN.
       

       Images

       1. President Anderson and others at the groundbreaking for South Hall.

       2. Construction of South Hall.

       3. Evergreen Court and Delta Hall are torn down to make way for South Hall.

       4. Exterior of South Hall.

       5. South Hall reception desk and stairs.
       
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   48. Morken Center

       Stop 48 is the Morken Center for Learning and Technology. After the building slowdown of the 1990s (only two buildings completed), the Morken Center and its accompanying 2000s construction and renovation projects mark a return to campus expansion and improvements.
       
       Construction on the Morken Center for Learning and Technology began in May 2002 and ended in 2006. It was named for the Morken family and Don Morken 1960 alumnus and regent. The building’s purpose was to integrate the business, math, computer science, and engineering departments under a single roof. Designed by Zimmer, Gunsul, Frasca (ZGF), the Morken Center was the first building in Pierce County to earn LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Gold certification.
       

       Images

       1. A sign shows how the finished product will look as construction gets underway for the Morken Center.

       2. Crane working at the Morken Center construction site.

       3. A steelworker working at the Morken Center construction site.

       4. The Morken Center for Learning and Technology under construction.

       5. Steel beam with Go Lutes Attaway printed on it at the Morken Center construction site.

       6. Interior of Morken Center for Learning and Technology. 

       7. Geothermal heating and cooling equipment within Morken Center for Learning and Technology.

       8. Morken Center at Pacific Lutheran University on Friday, Oct. 15, 2010.

       9. Don and Wanda Morken, namesakes of the Morken Center.
       
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   49. Community Garden

       The next tour stop is the Community Garden. Like stop 5, the Tennis Court, this stop was planned and built by students and volunteers.
       
       Formerly located at the old Women’s Center on Lower Campus, the Community Garden opened in this location in 2008. PLU students and community volunteers work the garden and its produce is distributed to community members and food banks. The site was formerly the Music Practice House, which was acquired in 1972 and razed in 1989.
       

       Images

       1. The PLU Community Garden sign, designed by alumna Kristi Riedel.

       2. President Anderson and University Pastor Nancy Connor at the Community Garden ribbon cutting.

       3. Students Kristi Riedel and Becky Mares present staff member Oney Crandall with an award at the Community Garden opening.
       
       See more images from the Archives collection.

   50. Martin J. Neeb Center

       The Martin J. Neeb Center is the 50th stop on the tour. It is the southeasternmost part of campus and one of the few campus structures on the east side of Park Avenue South.
       
       Named for longtime KPLU general manager Martin Neeb, ground was broken for the Martin J. Neeb Center in 2008 and the building was completed in 2009. Designed by Bloomfield and Associates and Helix Architecture + Design, the Neeb Center earned LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Gold certification, the second campus building to do so.
       

       Images

       1. Workers on the Neeb Center construction site.

       2. Concrete pumping at the Neeb Center construction site.

       3. The Neeb Center construction site.

       4. The completed Martin J. Neeb Center.

       5. Longtime KPLU general manager Martin Neeb, namesake of the Martin J. Neeb Center.

   51. Garfield Book Company

       The next stop on the Campus History Tour is the Garfield Book Company. It was the first PLU construction project on Garfield Street as well as the first project where PLU would share the space with private companies. It was also the last campus building of the 2000s.
       
       Garfield Book Company opened in 2009 as part of the larger Garfield Commons project at the corner of Pacific Avenue and Garfield Street. 208 Garfield, a PLU-run restaurant, and a Scandinavian gift store shared the building. Garfield Book Company and the gift store have since closed, but 208 Garfield remains open.
       

       Images

       1. Sheri Tonn cuts the ribbon of Garfield Book Company.

       2. PLU Baker Erica Fickeisen demonstrating at culinary boot camp held in the Garfield Book Company.

       3. Garfield Book Company and 208 Garfield seen from outside.

   52. Carol Sheffels Quigg Greenhouse

       Between the Morken Center, Rieke Center, and Olson Gymnasium is the 52nd tour stop, the Carol Sheffels Quigg Greenhouse. A small project relative to its neighbors, this building is an academic building for the science departments.
       
       The Carol Sheffels Quigg Greenhouse was completed in 2015. The 1,700-square-foot project was funded at $880,000. The state-of-the-art greenhouse uses an innovative, closed-loop geothermal energy system, which means that no greenhouse-gas-producing emissions will be used to heat and cool the building. 
       Westmark Construction and Precision Greenhouse Construction, Inc. built the aluminum and glass-pane facility. After consultation with Horticulture Services, the greenhouse was designed by AustinCina Architects, based on a kit from NEXUS Greenhouse Systems.
       

       Images

       1. Construction of the Greenhouse between Morken and Rieke at PLU on Monday, March 16, 2015.

       2. Construction of the Greenhouse between Morken and Rieke at PLU on Monday, March 16, 2015.

       3. Greenhouse construction at PLU on Thursday, April 2, 2015.

       4. Greenhouse construction at PLU on Tuesday, Aug. 11, 2015.

       5. Greenhouse construction between Rieke and Morken at PLU on Wednesday, August 19, 2015.

       6. Greenhouse construction between Rieke and Morken at PLU on Wednesday, August 19, 2015.

       7. Carol Sheffels Quigg Greenhouse at PLU on Friday, Oct. 16, 2015.

       8. The completed Greenhouse at PLU on Friday, Oct. 16, 2015.

       9. Carol Sheffels Quigg, the namesake of the Carol Sheffels Quigg Greenhouse

   53. Garfield Station

       The next tour stop is Garfield Station. Like its neighbor Garfield Book Company, Garfield Station is a campus building that PLU shares with private companies. This is the most recently completed building on PLU’s campus.
       
       Completed in 2015, Garfield Station is a 120,000 square foot multi-use building that houses PLU’s departments of Human Resources and Marriage and Family Therapy. The top three floors are apartments with retail and office space on the ground floor. GGLO designed Garfield Station and Korsmo Construction built it.
       

       Images

       1. Groundbreaking ceremony for Garfield Station.

       2. Demolition to make space for the construction of Garfield Station.

       3. Garfield Station under construction.

       4. Garfield Station exterior.

   54. Second Women's Center

       The southwest corner of 120th and Yakima is the 54th tour stop and was the first standalone site of the Women’s Center following its original location in the basement of East Campus.
       The Women’s Center opened in this location on September 17, 1992, and eventually moved to Lower Campus. This building was razed.
       
       Images
       1. The Women’s Center as it looked at this location.

   55. Third Women's Center

       The third Women’s Center is the next stop on the Campus History Tour. Like many other campus buildings that PLU acquired, it was a residence first.
       
       This location was the Women's Center (after previous sites on Upper Campus and East Campus) as well as the first Community Garden. This site was razed in the mid-2000s and both the Community Garden and the Women's Center (now known as the Center for Gender Equity) moved to 121st Street South.
       

       Images

       1. The Women's Center prior to its demolition.

       2. Students working in the Community Garden before its move to Park Avenue.

   56. Center for Gender Equity

       The next tour stop is the Center for Gender Equity. This is the sixth house on the north side of 121st Street South that became part of PLU’s campus.
       
       The Center for Gender Equity was the fourth location of the Women’s Center before its name changed. The Women’s Center opened in this location in the mid-2000s and the prior Women’s Center location on Lower Campus was razed.
       
       Images
       1. The Center for Gender Equity when it was known as the Women's Center

   57. Lee House

       The northeasternmost extent of PLU’s campus, Lee House is the next stop on the Campus History Tour. Formerly known as the Payroll House, Lee House was donated by former campus pastor and religion instructor Reverend Orlando Lee in 1991. Orlando and wife Myrtle lived in the house for 32 years, having purchased it from Ella and Clifford Olson. Clifford Olson was a PLU coach and athletic director and the namesake of Olson Gymnasium and Auditorium.
       
       Since its acquisition, Lee House has been home to the Payroll department, ROTC, and the Web Team of the Department of Marketing and Communications.
       

       Images

       1. Myrtle and Orlando Lee outside the Lee House.
       2. Lee House exterior.

       3. An ROTC instructor and military officer outside Lee House.

       4. The Marketing and Communications Web Team on the steps of Lee House.

   58. Music House

       The next stop is the Music House. Located at the corner of Park Avenue South, this house was acquired in 1971.
       
       The Music House was originally known as the Park Avenue House and used as alternate student housing with two apartments on the first floor for men and two apartments on the second floor for women. Later it was renamed the Theatre House and used for offices for that department. In the mid-2010s it was renamed the Music House and began to be used for music practice and lessons.
       

       Images

       1. The Music House exterior.

       2. The Music House when it was known as the Theatre House.

       3. The Music House when it was known as the Park Avenue House and used for student housing

       4. Students who lived in the Park Avenue house on the stairs.

   59. Cramer Cottage

       The last stop on the tour is Cramer Cottage. It was built in 1928, but no information is available as to when PLU acquired it.
       
       Cramer Cottage served as the home of the president until 1956 and then the home of the campus pastor. To prepare the construction site for Mortvedt Library, Cramer Cottage was sold, loaded onto a truck, and moved to another location in Parkland in 1965.
       

       Images

       1. Cramer Cottage exterior.

       2. Cramer Cottage loaded onto a trailer and moving from campus.

       3. Cramer Cottage loaded onto a trailer and moving from campus.
       
       See more images from the Archives collection.