West Hall

West Hall was completed in 1917. As Colonel West had died in December of 1914, the Board decided to name the building in his honor. According to the students, the growth of the college had necessitated the new building: "For two years we lived fairly comfortably in … [Building One, or Converse Hall] but the school grew so rapidly that for the next two years we existed in such a crowded condition that at every turn our elbows met the ribs of our fellow students."(Pinebranch, Dec. 1917, p. 2)  The above is an image from the 1960’s  when the building was showing its age.  It was restored in 1989.

They were very proud of the new building:

"There it stood, its stately dome towering above its exquisite façade and its broad and graceful wings stretching boldly to either side. The rich, red tile of the roof and dome, the deep shadows cast by the overhanging eaves against the broad white walls, the multitude of arched windows -- all contributed to produce a most pleasing effect." (Pinebranch, Dec. 1917, p.2) West Hall became the "administration" building, housing all classrooms, administrative offices, and the library. Building One [Converse Hall] became a dormitory. "When this little girl, a member of the first grade of the training school, broke the ground for West Hall in 1916 she did not know that she would grow up and become one day registrar of the college with offices in that same building. She is Mrs. Caroline Parrish Thomas, of Valdosta. (Atlanta Constitution, 1/16/38)

"When this little girl, a member of the first grade of the training school, broke the ground for West Hall in 1916 she did not know that she would grow up and become one day registrar of the college with offices in that same building.

She is Mrs. Caroline Parrish Thomas, of Valdosta. (Atlanta Constitution, 1/16/38) West Hall under construction in 1916 behind the flag pole with the student body of South Georgia State Normal College.

West Hall under construction in 1916 behind the flag pole with the student body of South Georgia State Normal College.

For questions about West Hall

Contact the main campus line at 229-333-5800.

Citation:

All pictures shown above are from the Valdosta State University Archives and Special Collections.