The Building That Built the University

The Shoemaker Building is a hidden treasure on University of Marylands campus.

Built in 1932, Shoemaker resulted from the Great Fire of 1912. A fire rapidly spread
throughout campus, destroying the library, student housing, and academic
buildings. The only thing left standing was Murray Hall.
In the face of adversity, the University remained strong. Over the years, the
university rebuilt itself and reclaimed its spot as an outstanding academic
institution. This restoration included the construction of Shoemaker, which
functioned as the universitys library until the construction of McKeldin Library in
1958. For 26 years, Shoemaker served as University of Marylands knowledge hub
filled with students dedicating time and energy to their studies.
According to Megan Dougherty, a UMD campus tour guide, the building is named
after Samuel M. Shoemaker, a chairman of the Board of Regents for University of
Maryland. From 1920 to 1933, Shoemaker served as part of the governing body of
the university. This significant time period immediately followed the Great Fire and
included the reconstruction era. The decision to rebuild the campus and the means
through which it was accomplished directly related to the strong leadership
demonstrated by the board.
Dougherty stated that Shoemakers role rewrote our history and directly influenced
each past, present, and future UMD student. Without his dedication, the University
may not have become the power house it is today.
Overshadowed by football games, school work, and social scenes, Shoemakers
history remains unknown to many. On the other hand, the building is recognized for
its current advancements. The 84-year-old building needed aesthetic and
technological improvements to keep it functioning and appealing. In 2009, the
University restored Shoemaker. The goal of revitalization and preservation of history
structured the project.
The renovations made with respect to the services provided within the building
enhanced its functionality. The lecture hall, outfitted with modern technology,
created an environment conducive to learning. Academic needs meet psychological
needs in Shoemaker, as it is now home to the Counseling Center, Learning
Assistance Services, and Disability Support Services. Contractors utilized high
ceilings and warm furnishings to make the space more accessible and friendly to
students. They also created ground floor entrances to the centers to create a more
prominent on-campus presence and to encourage students to take advantage of its
resources.
These support services provide students with many workshops, group sessions, and
general aid. The Counseling Center provides individual counseling appointments as
well as calling hours after closing. Learning Assistance Services provides workshops
about managing stress, planning schedules, and studying strategies. Students often
utilize Disability Support Services when in need of test or classroom
accommodations due to mental or physical disabilities.

Many students are unfamiliar with Samuel Shoemaker and his contributions to this
campus. When they walk past the building, they do not recognize the significance of
his name or the resources that he provided for students of all generations.
Shoemaker is a prime example of the universitys zeal, academic prosperity, and
growing extracurricular assets.