OLD MAIN
March 4, 1886, Governor Francis E. Warren of the Wyoming Territory signed a bill establishing the University of Wyoming. The act authorized $50,000 for construction of a university building, later to be known as Old Main. The cornerstone was laid September 27, 1886, by the Masonic Order. It bears the inscription Domi Habuit Unde Disceret (He has a home where he may learn). One year later the doors opened for the fist class of 42 men and women.
Although not officially known as Old Main until 1949 when the name was carved above the east facing door, this building more than any other epitomizes the University of Wyoming. During the university's first decade it was simultaneously a classroom, library and administration building.
Old Main was designed by Denver architect Frederick A. Hale and built by the Laramie construction firm of Cook and Callahan from sandstone quarried east of Laramie and trim sandstone from Rawlins. The French chateau style incorporates both classical and Renaissance architecture. The original wooden steeple became unsafe and was removed in 1916. Major interior alterations were made in 1936 and 1949, but the exterior of Old Main remains much as it was constructed more than 100 years ago.
Centennial Celebration, September 27, 1986
