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Kelsey Boeing
10/18/2018
Cutler Hall, also known as the heart of campus, has been a prominent feature of Ohio University’s College Green since it was built in 1816.
Although many students don’t know the history behind Cutler Hall, it was built to create more academic space. The dwelling was officially the first college building in the Northwest Territory.
Benjamin Corp, of Marietta, was hired as the building’s architect and oversaw the construction of the building. For the job, he was given $6. Once the building was finished, it was dubbed the College Edifice. The total expense of Cutler Hall totaled $17,806 on April 19, 1819.
Cutler Hall was named after Manasseh Cutler, who persuaded the U.S. to set aside two townships as a land grant for the university.
The university continued to grow in size and required an addition. In 1835-1839, the East Wing and West Wing buildings were added. These are known today as McGuffey Hall and Wilson Hall.
Cutler was remodeled in the 1880s when the roof was raised and more classrooms were added to house more students.
In 1936, Cutler was abandoned as a class site, and only part of it remained occupied by administrative offices.
During the remodeling, Cutler’s wooden floors were replaced with concrete, and new windows, doors and elevators were added. Modern heating, lighting and plumbing were also installed.
In 1947, workers also found a pickled hand, apparently an exhibit in the old museum in Cutler’s tower, according to a Post report from 1972.
Kelsey Boeing | FOR THE POST
Cutler Hall has been a staple of Ohio University's campus since it first opened in 1819.
Cutler Hall was rededicated October 18-19, 1947. At the rededication ceremony, the song “Old Manasseh Cutler” was played. This is when Cutler Hall received its current name.
On Sept. 14, 1820, a resolution was passed for the purchase of a bell for the College Edifice. This bell is still in Cutler, but the bell no longer rings. Today, the chimes are recorded on tapes sent out by loudspeakers.
Cutler’s clock was a gift presented by the class of 1914. The clock often does show the incorrect time due to infrequent winding.
In June 1966, Cutler was determined “the most historic landmark in Ohio” and was declared a National Historic Landmark. A plaque was also unveiled on the steps of Cutler marking it as the oldest university building.
“I like the fact that it’s been here since the beginning ,” said Tammy Babylon, executive office administer for the vice president of Student Affairs. “I am walking in the halls our founding fathers have walked.”
Cutler Hall is still in use today and has been on campus for 202 years.
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