Old Main

Pictured in 1890 and again in a blaze in 1900.

The military cadets are practicing a formation in the older archive photo. All of the male military cadets can be seen in the back, with the female cadets in front of them, and a band in front of them.

In the newer archive photo, the building is on its first of two fires.

The Old Main is a sight long gone on Iowa State’s Campus, succeeded by Beardshear Hall.

Plans for construction began in 1858, however due to financial strains caused by the Civil War, it would not begin until 1864. Construction finished in 1868.

According to the Library’s Special Archives, the first architect was let go due to “incompetence”. All of his work was scrapped by the second architect in 1865, who deemed that the foundation was unstable.

Later, after construction was finished, it was realized that the plans had not included any heating, water, drainage or lighting.

During its time standing, it served as the main building for Iowa State. It was commonly called “The Main.” It included various classrooms, museums, the chapel, the library, as well as dining and residence halls.

It was also the site for military cadet training. According to the Library’s Special Archives, Military training was required of all male students from 1868-1962.

The first stage in its three stage demise was a tornado in 1882, which took out part of the south tower.

In 1900 was the first of two fires. This first fire burned the entire north wing down, most of the center portion, and damaged the rest of the building.

It remained partially in use until 1902, when the second fire burned the rest of the building down.

Plans for a more fireproof building began immediately. This building was built on the same grounds and became the Central Building, now Beardshear Hall.

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