Howe Hall


AKA: Canteen
Building #: 74/75
Campus: Center
Built: 1933
Square Footage: 17,362ft²
Architectual Style: Colonial Revival

Location

42.39084, -71.2074

History

The Colonial Revival-style Howe Hall was built in 1933 as a large venue for entertainment (movies, plays, dances, etc.), as well as religious services (until the construction of the Chapel). Previously these services took place in the Gymnasium, which conflicted with physical training activities as the school grew in size. Howe Hall was naturally located near the other core services such as the kitchen, laundry, and administration building, also built around the same time, creating a central campus along a wide boulevard. Inside, a generously-sized stage could host performances and a movie screen, while dressing rooms and a beauty parlor were located in the rear. Chairs were not affixed to the main theater floor so it could double as a dance hall. A mezzanine level and projection booth is located on the second floor. Its basement was used as a canteen and later a copy center. As with the library, Howe Hall was named in honor of Samuel Gridley Howe, the founder and superintendent of the institution when it was first founded in Boston.


Photo Gallery


Related Documents

Graduation of the “Waivered LPN Class,” 1954

The graduation of the 'waivered LPN Class' circa 1954 in front of Fernald's theater building, Howe Hall. Pictured: Grace Estelle Bagley (top row, 2nd from left) and Dr. Malcolm Farrell, superintendent (front row, wearing suit).

Type: comparison Dates: 1954