Purdue Memorial Union facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Purdue University Memorial Union
General information
Type	Student union
Location	101 North Grant Street West Lafayette, Indiana 47907-3574
Coordinates	40°25′29″N 86°54′40″W / 40.4248°N 86.9110°W / 40.4248; -86.9110
Construction started	June 13, 1922
Completed	September 9, 1924
Owner	Purdue University
Design and construction
Architect	Pond and Pond
Main contractor	A.E. Kemmer

The Purdue Memorial Union (PMU) is a special building at Purdue University in West Lafayette, Indiana. It's like a community center for students, staff, and visitors. The PMU first opened in 1924. It was built to honor the Purdue students who served in World War I.

Today, the PMU has many cool things inside. You can find restaurants, comfy places to relax, and offices for student groups. There's even a bowling alley and a hotel!

History of the PMU

In the early 1900s, people at Purdue University wanted a central place. They needed a spot where students, teachers, and guests could meet up. So, in 1912, a group of students started collecting money. They wanted to build a "union" building for everyone.

But then, World War I began. Many men and women from Purdue joined the war. Some of them sadly died. Because of this, everyone decided the new building should be a memorial. It would honor all the brave Purdue people who fought in the war. After this decision, more money was collected to build the PMU.

Inside the Building

The PMU first opened its doors in 1924. However, it wasn't fully finished until 1929. Over the years, more parts were added.

• Basement: In 1936, a fun bowling alley was built here.
• Ground Floor: This floor has most of the Union's restaurants and coffee shops. It's a great place to grab a bite or a drink.
• Main Floor: Here, you'll find student services and several lounges. There are also two large ballrooms. These are used for big events and gatherings. This floor also holds the Great Hall of the Union. This hall is a special memorial for the Purdue men and women who served in wars. You can also see a small model of the Purdue campus here.
• Second Floor: This floor has more lounges where you can relax. It also has private offices.

• 

  The Great Hall, looking north

• 

  The Great Hall, looking south

Union Club Hotel

Beautiful stained glass in Memorial Hall

The first part of the Union Club Hotel was built in 1929. Since then, it has grown into a full-service hotel. It offers a place for visitors to stay right on campus.

Union Rack & Roll

The Union Rack & Roll is the bowling alley. It is located in the basement of the PMU. It's a popular spot for students to have fun and hang out.

Services for Everyone

The PMU offers many helpful services. These are for students, staff, and visitors. You can find financial offices and student services here. Plus, there are many different restaurants to choose from.

Purdue Student Union Board

The Purdue Student Union Board (PSUB) is a student group. It plans fun programs and services for students, staff, and the West Lafayette community. PSUB actually existed before the Union building was even built! They helped raise money to fund the building. When PSUB started in 1920, it had only a few members. Now, it has over a hundred students involved.