Philips Memorial Building facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Philips Memorial Building
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U.S. Historic district
Contributing property |
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Philips Memorial Building
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 Location in Pennsylvania
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| Location | Corner of University and S. High St., West Chester, Pennsylvania |
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| Area | 12.6 acres (5.1 ha) |
| Built | 1927 |
| Architect | Walter Price |
| Architectural style | Collegiate Gothic |
| Part of | West Chester State College Quadrangle Historic District |
| NRHP reference No. | 81000539 |
| Added to NRHP | October 08, 1981 |
Philips Memorial Hall is a famous building at West Chester University in West Chester, Pennsylvania. It's named after George M. Philips, who was the principal of the school for a long time (from 1881 to 1920). This beautiful building first opened its doors in 1927.
It's an important part of the West Chester State College Quadrangle Historic District. This whole area is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, which means it's a special place recognized for its history. Walter F. Price designed the hall. He used a local stone called Foxcroft Wissahickon schist. This stone gives the building its unique look, which is typical of the "Collegiate Gothic" style.
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Building History and Design
Philips Memorial Hall was built in 1927. It was designed by a skilled architect named Walter F. Price. He chose a style called "Collegiate Gothic." This style makes buildings look like old European castles or cathedrals. They often have pointed arches and tall windows.
Special Stone Features
The outside of Philips Hall is made from a special local stone. It's called "hammer-dressed Foxcroft Wissahickon schist." "Hammer-dressed" means the stone was shaped by hand using a hammer. This gives the building a very strong and classic appearance.
Renovation and Unique Features
In 1999, Philips Memorial Hall got a big update. Emily Kessel Asplundh, who graduated in 1927, and others helped make these changes possible. Their support helped keep the building looking great.
Cool Things to See
Philips Hall has many interesting things to explore:
- The Whispering Archway: This is a fun spot where you can whisper on one side, and someone far away on the other side can hear you!
- Distinctive Gargoyles: Look up and you'll see cool stone carvings. These are gargoyles, often shaped like creatures.
- Coats of Arms and Figures: The building also features designs showing coats of arms and figures from history. They represent important ideas from Western civilization.
- Philips Autographed Library: Inside, there's a special library with 2,000 books. Many of these books have been signed by their authors!
- Emily K. Asplundh Concert Hall: This large hall can seat 1,200 people. It's used for concerts and other performances.
- Presidential Office Suite: The university's president has their offices in this historic building.
Gallery
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George Morris Philips, the principal the hall is named after.
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The famous whispering archway.
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A plaque celebrating the building's dedication.
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A view of Philips Memorial Building from outside the quad.
