Crampton Hall (1873; remodeled 1954)

For many years Crampton Hall held the distinction as the oldest college residence building in Illinois. But that status came to an end in 2006 after its final cohort of students relocated to other living facilities on campus. The three-story brick structure opened in 1873 and is an architectural treasure on the Illinois College Quadrangle. Its primary role was as a residence hall for men, but there were periods during its long history when women resided in the hall, as well. Total occupancy was 56 students, and the building included a game room and laundry facilities.

The building honors the distinguished campus service of Rufus C. Crampton, a dedicated professor of mathematics and astronomy whose tenure included a stint (1876-1882) as acting president. Professor Crampton led a group of IC volunteers who served in the Union Army during the Civil War. William Jennings Bryan, an 1883 graduate who ran as the Democratic Party candidate for president of the United States on three occasions, was among the first residents of Crampton Hall.

Crampton Hall is on the verge of a new chapter in its long existence. Work is expected to begin in 2009 on plans to extensively remodel the structure and convert it for use as an administrative center. A principal component of the new plan will feature creation of the Khalaf Al Habtoor Leadership Center which will house the collected papers and personal items of Paul Findley, a 1943 Illinois College graduate and Jacksonville native who served west central Illinois in the U.S. House of Representatives from 1961-1983. The collection will include mementoes collected by the Congressman during his distinguished career along with several Lincoln artifacts he acquired.

The Leadership Center will also enable Illinois College to pay tribute to its remarkable history of educating its graduates for careers in public service. Alumni who will occupy places of distinction in the Leadership Center include Richard Yates who served as Illinois governor during the Civil War, William Jennings Bryan, and the 17 other men and women who served in Congress or were elected governor of their respective states and territories.

 

 

 

Illinois College
1101 West College Avenue
Jacksonville, IL 62650
217.245.3030

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