October 2003

Math Building turns 100
UM’s venerable Math Building celebrated 100 years of service with an open house this month.

The public toured the historic building, which was built in 1903 as a women’s residence hall. Historical blueprints and photographs were displayed, and refreshments were served.

UM art Associate Professor H. Rafael Chacón gave a lecture titled “A.J. Gibson’s Women’s Hall at The University of Montana: A Brief History.”

He said the building was designed by noted architect A.J. Gibson to provide housing for UM’s growing female population. Chacón said the University’s third building was a significant departure from early plans for UM in both style and location, yet it added a new level of elegance to the emerging campus. It also revealed the University’s dedication to the education of women at the turn of the last century.

Besides discussing Math Building history, Chacón talked about his upcoming book on the life and work of A.J. Gibson, whom he calls Missoula’s most important architect.

University Relations | Cary Shimek, Editor
The University of Montana-Missoula
32 Campus Drive | Missoula, MT 59812
phone (406) 243-2522 | fax (406) 243-4520
© 2004 The University of Montana