Description

This scrapbook details the history of Alumni Hall on Iowa State University's campus.

Started in 1904, the Christian Association Hall (Alumni Hall), commonly called the YMCA Building for many years, was built through the combined efforts of the College, the YMCA, and the Alumni Association.

The basement was built with a swimming pool, cafe, and bowling alley. In 1914, after the opening of the State Gymnasium swimming pool, the Alumni pool was replaced with a larger dining room. Also, an addition to the south was built at this time to accommodate a larger kitchen.

In 1928, after the opening of the Memorial Union, the dining room, known as the "College Inn," was replaced with additional study rooms and offices. The Alumni Association also relocated to the new Memorial Union.

Alumni Hall was used as the Administration Building for the Naval Training School during World War II. An upper level was added to the south wing at this time to make room for additional dormitories. The Navy moved out in 1944.

After the Navy left, Alumni Hall continued to hold the offices of the YMCA and YWCA, in addition to housing about 60 male residents. For many years, the men of Alumni Hall lived as a group much like that of a fraternity. In 1985, Iowa State University acquired ownership of the building from the Alumni Hall board of directors, who were unable to fund the $3 million renovation necessary to prevent further deterioration of the exterior. The male residents were relocated when the Board of Regents converted Alumni Hall to a complex for student services.

On the National Register of Historic Places since 1966, the Enrollment Services Center (named 2008; formerly Alumni Hall) now houses the Office of Admissions and the Office of the Registrar.