preservation lan - pittsburgh history & landmarks foundation

PRESERVATION PLAN �

Slippery Rock, Pennsylvania

Preservation

Plan

made possible with a grant fromThe GeTTy FoundaTionCampus heriTaGe GranTs

and slippery roCk universiTy

prepared by

piTTsburGh hisTory & landmarks FoundaTion

consultantslandmarks desiGn

assoCiaTes arChiTeCTs

liberTo horTiCulTureConsulTinG & desiGn

� SLIPPERY ROCK UNIVERSITY


The purpose of this plan is to outline recommendations for the preservation, conservation and continued use of the

historic landscape and buildings of Slippery Rock University.

Funding for this project was provided through a Campus Heritage Grant

awarded by

The Getty Foundationand by

Slippery Rock University

Pittsburgh History & Landmarks Foundation100 West Station Square Drive, STE 450Pittsburgh, PA 15219 • 412-471-5808 • www.phlf.orgP


Researched, Written and Produced by:

Pittsburgh history & Landmarks Foundation

100 West Station Square Drive, STE 450Pittsburgh, PA 15219 • 412-471-5808 • www.phlf.org

Arthur P. Ziegler, Jr., President Eugene V. Matta, Director of Real Estate & Special Development Programs Thomas Keffer, Property & Construction Manager Louise Sturgess, Executive Director Albert Tannler, Historical Collections Director RonaldC.Yochum,ChiefInformationOfficer

Consultants:

Ellis Schmidlapp, Landmarks Design Associates Architects Richard A. Liberto, Liberto Horticulture Consulting & Design

Slippery Rock University Administration and Staff:

Dr. Robert Smith, PresidentWilliam F. Williams - Provost and Vice President for Academic AffairsHerbert F. Carlson Assistant Vice President for Facility Services Dr. Robert Watson, VP Student AffairsNancyCruikshank,GrantsOffice

Original drawings consulted in this report were reviewed with the assistance of Laura Samples of theSlipperyRockFacilitiesandPlanningOfficeandRobertNauglesofEcklesArchitecture.

Historic photographs were obtained from the Slippery Rock University Archives at the Bailey Library with the assistance of Kevin McLatchy.

Historical information was gathered from papers and publications of Dr. Kurt Pitluga of Slippery Rock University and from “The Legend Behind the Name” by Robert J. Watson, Ph.D.

© 2007 by Pittsburgh History & Landmarks Foundation. All rights reserved.


Contents

inTroduCTion................................................................................. 7eduCaTional meeTinG................................................................... 7

hisTory oF Campus plan.............................................................. 11

idenTiFiCaTion oF hisToriC Campus disTriCT, sTruCTures........ 17 Recommendation For National Register Listing......................17 Recommendation For Campus Planning Process.....................17

General reCommendaTions......................................................... 21 Exteriors................................................................................... 21 Roof Coverings........................................................................ 21 Cornices and exterior woodwork..............................................21 Windows.................................................................................. 21 Masonry.................................................................................... 22 Entrances and corridors............................................................ 22 SignificantInteriorSpaces.......................................................22 Landscape, hardscape and site lighting.................................... 23 Trees, plantings, and other landscape conditions..................... 23 Historic District heirloom plant suggestions............................ 24 Lighting............................................. ....................................... 26

individual reCommendaTions.......................................................27 East Gymnasium (Pearl K. Stoner Instructional Complex).....29 Robert. A. Lowry Center..........................................................30 Maltby Center........................................................................... 31 McKay Education Building..................................................... 33 North Hall................................................................................ 35 Old Main.................................................................................. 37 President’s Residence............................................................... 39 Strain Science Building............................................................ 41 West Gymnasium (Pearl K. Stoner Instructional Complex).... 43 Rizza Hall (West Hall)............................................................. 45 Hickory Schoolhouse............................................................... 47

individual hisTories, surveys, immediaTe mainTenanCe issues..49 Chronology of Construction of the Historic Campus.............. 51 History of Campus Site............................................................ 53 Gymnasiums - Stoner Education Complex.............................. 55 Hickory Schoolhouse............................................................... 59 Lowry House............................................................................ 61 Maltby Hall .............................................................................. 64 McKay Education Building..................................................... 67 North Hall................................................................................ 70 Old Main.................................................................................. 73 President’s House..................................................................... 77 Strain Science Building............................................................ 79 Rizza Hall (formerly West Hall).............................................. 83

summary......................................................................................... 87


slippery roCk universiTyhisToriC Campus preservaTion plan

inTroduCTion

Slippery Rock University is the only Commonwealth of Pennsylvania related school studied by the Pittsburgh History & Landmarks Foundation as part of the Getty Campus Heritage Studies of four Western Pennsylvania Colleges.

The Preservation Plan is based on an analysis of the historic structures of Slippery Rock University made between June 2006 and September 2006 by the Pittsburgh History & Landmarks Foundationanditsconsultants,andrefinedandrevisedthroughconsultationwiththecollege.Theplan was the subject of a campus-wide seminar to which all interested staff, faculty, and students were invited.

eduCaTional meeTinG

ThePittsburghHistory&LandmarksFoundation(PHLF)workedwiththePresident’sOfficesettingup an educational meeting on February 1, 2007, where PHLF’s selected staff and consultants shared withthecollegestudents,faculty,andstaffthefindingsandrecommendationsoftheconservationwork done so far.

PHLF sent a copy of the preliminary Slippery Rock University draft report to the University President’sofficeofalltheworkcompleted,andsuppliedinformationonhowtodownloadthedraftreport on its web site (www.phlf.org/getty). PHLF’s intention was to provide as much access to the informationaspossibletothecollegecommunityregardingthefindingsandrecommendationsmadeby Thomas Keffer, PHLF’s Property and Construction Manager, and Ellis Schmidlapp, President of Landmarks Design Associates Architects. Because Slippery Rock University joined the group of colleges late, it was not possible to undertake a thorough landscape evaluation; the University President lamented this fact during PHLF’s presentation.

Therewereapproximatelyfiftypersonsattendingthepresentation,includingtheUniversityPresident, staff, faculty and students. The audience was attentive and comments on the work completed were positive. The University President was very pleased with the presentation and requested if Mr. Schmidlapp could review the issue of landscaping.

ArchitectEllisSchmidlappspokeprimarilyaboutlong-termissuesandbrieflydescribedthecampus during the 1891 to 1906 period, during a boom period that extended from approximately 1929 to 1939 – the University’s Revival period – and after 1942. Mr. Schmidlapp strongly suggested the creation of a Heritage Area or Historic Campus District.

Mr. Keffer’s presentation was focused on immediate maintenance issues. An important area that Mr.Kefferaddressedwasthebenefitofilluminatinghistoricbuildingsandpathwaysandinthiswaysaving in energy as well as giving the campus a romantic and pleasant view after dark.

The President of the Students Government Association, Amie Homa, wrote us the following note:

“I would like to thank you, Mr. Keffer and Mr. Schmidlapp for an impressive and insightful presentation of the draft preservation plan for Slippery Rock University. As President of the StudentsGovernmentAssociation,Ifinditparticularlyappealingtomaintainandpreserveourhistoric structures and traditions of the campus. Thank you again and I look forward to sharing the study with other students.”


hisTory oF Campus plan

�0 SLIPPERY ROCK UNIVERSITY

PRESERVATION PLAN ��

hisTory oF Campus plan

Slippery Rock University, in Slippery Rock Township, Butler County, Pa., commemorates its founding in 1889 when it was accredited as a State of Pennsylvania normal school. This date represents less a beginning than a culmination. In 1887 efforts began to establish an academy, later a state normal school, in what was then Centerville, Pa. Later, the township, like the school, would be named after the Slippery Rock Creek. Initial fund raising led to the establishment of the Slippery Rock State Normal School Association early in 1888, followed by the acquisition of ten acres for a campus. A building committee was established and in March of 1888 architect S. W. Foulk of New Castle, Pa., was asked to prepare sketches for three buildings. His designs were accepted and a contractor was hired in May.1

Foulk’sfirmdesignedeightbuildingsforSlipperyRockbetween1888and1906.Fivearegone:North Hall, 1888-94, enlarged 1894, burned 1937; South Hall I and II, 1888-95, burned and rebuilt 1896, demolished 1962; and the Chapel I and II, 1888-1896, burned and rebuilt 1897, demolished 1971.2 Three remain: Old Main (1891-93), West Hall (1902), and West Gymnasium (1906).

SidneyWinfieldFoulk(1848-1932)wasborninOhio,thesonofacabinetmaker/carpenter.3 The family moved to Western Pennsylvania in the 1850s. Nothing is known of Sidney’s architectural apprenticeship, but by 1879 he was a practicing “architect and builder” in Greenville, Pa. In 1883, he moved to New Castle. He was known as an accomplished architect of churches, YMCAs, elementary schools, and hotels. 4 Art historian Kurt Pitluga observes that Foulk’s buildings demonstrate “a personal style working within the freedom and relaxed framework of the popular Queen Anne and Richardsonian Romanesque styles, often fusing the two together to produce highly picturesque designs.”5 Foulk’s sons, Frank and Ralph, apprenticed with him, and in 1899, Frank, whohadstudiedattheArmourInstituteinChicago,becameapartnerandthefirmbecameS.W.Foulk&Son.In1907,SidneyretiredandFranktookchargeofthefirm;SidneyandRalphtraveledto California and Sidney settled in Long Beach where he died in 1932.6

The three surviving Foulk buildings were designed and erected between 1891 and 1906 at the request of principal Albert B. Maltby, who served from 1890 to 1915. Old Main (1891-93) was the first.Watsonstates:

Construction of the $75,000 structure began in 1891 and was ready for use in 1893. Trimmed in Ohio sandstone, this majestic red brick building, appropriately called Main Building, quickly became the center of life on the Slippery Rock campus. Dr. Maltby set up his administrative office on the first floor of this new structure. The library was located on the second floor with the gymnasium on the third.7

“Foulk’s freewheeling designs always have distinguishing details. Here, the façade is a lively arrangement of abstract geometric volumes: a square tower emerges between two projecting bays, one polygonal and one circular, dramatically offsetting the cavernous void of the entrance below.”8

EarlyinDr.Maltby’stenure“keyacquisitionsoflandweremadewhichunifiedthecampusandgave the school direct access from the heart of the campus to Main Street. The Long Walk which permittedeasyaccessfromtheheartofthecampustoMainStreet,firstconstructedofplankboards,was later rebuilt of cement. Dr. Maltby, a civil engineer, did much of the surveying of the land which the school acquired.”9

In 1902 West Hall [now Rizza Hall], designed by Foulk’s elder son and partner, Frank H. Foulk (1874-1929), was completed at a cost of $27,000 to house the Model School and the Science Department10: “Constructed of yellow brick, it continues the Richardsonian Romanesque style with heavy stonework around the doors and windows.”11SidneyFoulk’sfinalbuildingforSlipperyRock, West Gymnasium [now Stoner West], opened in 1906: “It is a slight departure from the Richardsonian Romanesque styling of the previous buildings. The gym uses a Classical vocabulary in the porticos on the north and west elevations, although the massing of the building remains Richardsonian.”12 The Class of 1908 contributed a pair of stone lions to guard the entrance.13

TheinitialbuildingprogramatSlipperyRockunfoldedduringtheinstitution’sfirstnineteenyearsof development and growth and the major campus buildings were the work of a single architectural

�� SLIPPERY ROCK UNIVERSITY

firm.Itwouldbeanothertwodecadesbeforethesecondmajorperiodofexpansion;thiswouldlastforsometenyearsandwasalsoentrustedtoasinglearchitecturalfirm.Thesecondbuildingprogram began during the administration of J. Linwood Eisenberg [1917-34] and was completed under his successor, Charles S. Miller [1934-40]. Watson notes: “In order to keep pace with the expanding academic programs and enrollments, Slippery Rock had to enlarge its campus and its physical facilities. Land purchases of 1923, 1925 and 1929 brought the total acreage of the campus to 150 acres . . . . In 1929, Dr. Eisenberg launched a major building program.”14 Subsequently, President Miller applied for $905,000 from $64 million building construction funds made available under the Pennsylvania Authority Act of 1935.15 Seven major campus buildings were erected between 1929 and 1939; all were designed by W. G. Eckles Co. of New Castle, Pa.

WilliamGeorgeEckles(1867-1932)foundedhisfirminNewCastle,Pa.,in1898.Heprovideddiverse architectural design services, largely residences, churches, and commercial buildings. He began to design secondary schools and was recognized as an accomplished school architect, of collegiate as well as secondary school buildings.16 The Education Center (1929; now McKay Education Center)17 and East Gymnasium (1929-30)18 were designed and erected during his tenure.

RobertA.Eckles(1898-1968)succeededhisfatherasheadofthefirmin1932.RobertEcklesattended Amherst College 1916-18, received his B.S. degree from M.I.T. in 1921, and joined the familyfirmin1922.RobertEcklesledthefirmuntil196819 and he would logically have overseen the design and construction of the Secondary Laboratory School (1937; an addition to the Education Center),20 Strain Science Building (1937-38),21 Maltby Library (1937-39),22 President’s Residence (1937-39),23 and North Hall (1938-39).24

Although Eckles & Co. were well-known during the 1930s for their Collegiate Gothic, their 1937-39 Slippery Rock buildings were derived from a different design vocabulary: “Designed in Georgian and early colonial architectural styles, these buildings gave the Slippery Rock campus the quiet dignifiedappearanceofmanyofthecollegesoftheEast.”25

Two older buildings acquired by Slippery Rock should be mentioned. Hickory Schoolhouse (1860) was moved to the campus in 1989 and later relocated. The residence of faculty member Howard Headland, erected in 1928, was purchased by Slippery Rock. It was renamed Lowry Center in 1998 in honor of Dr. Robert A. Lowry, Acting President, 1968.

–

Bibliography

Watson, Robert J. Slippery Rock State College: The Legend Behind the Name. Slippery Rock State College Alumni Association, 1982.

Donnelly, Lu, David Brumble, and Franklin Toker. “Slippery Rock University.” The Buildings of Western Pennsylvania (Society of Architectural Historians, forthcoming).

“S. W. Foulk & Son.” New Castle, Pennsylvania and Vicinity at the Dawn of the Twentieth Century. Buffalo, NY: W. H. Seward & Co., 1904: 14

S. W. Foulk obituary. New Castle News, 13 October 1932

Pitluga, Kurt W. “S. W. Foulk: A Lost Victorian Master.” Unpublished paper.

“Mr. Eckles and School Architecture.” The Ohio Architect, Engineer & Builder (October 1915): 11-20.

Withey, Henry F., and Elsie R. Withey. Biographical Dictionary of American Architects (Deceased). Los Angeles, New Age, 1956: 188-189.

(Footnotes)

1Robert J. Watson, Slippery Rock State College: The Legend Behind the Name (Slippery Rock State College Alumni Association, 1982), 2-5. Slippery Rock Normal School became state-run in 1915, was renamed State Teachers College at Slippery Rock in 1927, Slippery Rock State College in 1960, and Slippery Rock University in 1982. 2 North Hall, South Hall, and the Chapel were originally wooden buildings [Watson, 14]. In 1894, North Hall was enlarged and remodeled from an “L-shaped building into one resembling an E and by adding a Norman, a Gothic and a Turkish tower, the hall now had 149 rooms which could house 300 students” [Watson, 18]. North Hall burned October 16, 1937 [Watson, 77]. South Hall burned in May 1895: “construction began in the summer of 1895. By the following year, a new brick, U-


shaped, three-story dormitory was completed. A tower held a bell which signaled meal times and other campus activities” [Watson, 23]. The Chapel burned in June of 1896: “Again the school acted promptly and within a year, a new stone chapel of Norman-French architecture with stain[sic]-glass windows was built. The auditorium, which could seat a thousand persons, had a full stage, dressing and storage rooms, and an organ” [Watson, 23].3 Biographical information from Kurt W. Pitluga, “S. W. Foulk: A Lost Victorian Master” (unpublished paper). Dr. Pitluga is a member of the Art History faculty at Slippery Rock University.4 S. W. Foulk’s sole surviving hotel, the 1891 Buena Vista Hotel (now Old Main at Southern Virginia University), Buena Vista, Virginia, was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1972.5 Pitluga, 1.6 Kurt Pitluga states that Sidney and Ralph Foulk designed buildings in Colorado, Idaho, and California as they moved westward [4].7 Watson, 18.8 Lu Donnelly, David Brumble, and Franklin Toker, “Slippery Rock University,” The Buildings of Pittsburgh and Western Pennsylvania (Society of Architectural Historians, forthcoming).9 Watson, 18.10 Watson, 24.11“Slippery Rock University,” SAH.12 Ibid.13 Watson, 27.14 Watson, 60. Watson notes that enrollment grew from 533 in 1923 to 852 in 1929 [58].15 Watson, 76.16 Henry F. Withey, and Elsie R. Withey, Biographical Dictionary of American Architects (Deceased) (Los Angeles, New Age, 1956), 188-189. See also www.ecklesarchitecture.com. 17 Watson, 60. 18 Watson, 61.19 Robert Eckles was succeeded by his son William George Eckles, II (b. 1925) who attended Grove City College, received a B. S. in Civil Engineering from Brown University in 1945, and a B. A. in Architecture from Carnegie Institute of Technology in1949.Hejoinedthefirmin1949andbecameapartnerin1953.HeledW.G.EcklesCompanyfrom1968untilhisretirement in 1987.20 Watson, 81.21 Watson, 80-81.22 Watson, 79-80.23 Watson, 83.24 Watson, 82-83. 25 Watson, 80.


idenTiFiCaTion

oF The

hisToriC Campus disTriCT and sTruCTures


idenTiFiCaTion oF The hisToriC Campus disTriCT and sTruCTures

After review of the historic structures and landscapes of the Slippery Rock University Campus, as well as the history of the design and construction of these resources, we recommend that the Slippery Rock UniversityCampusHistoricDistrictbedefinedasshownontheattachedmap.

This area includes ten historic structures constructed by Slippery Rock between 1892 and 1939 and the surrounding Campus Plan. The Hickory Schoolhouse moved onto the campus in 1989 is located within this area as well as the Miller Auditorium of 1958 and recently constructed Alumni House.

reCommendaTion For naTional reGisTer lisTinG

We recommend that Old Main and the West Gym be nominated to the National Register of Historic Places. National Register designation will formalize the recognition of these historic resources and will assist in future fund raising for these historic buildings.

Recommended Campus Historic District

1. Old Main2. Rizza Hall 3. Stoner Instructional Complex / East Gym4. Robert A. Lowry Center5. McKay Education Building6. Stoner Instructional Complex (West Gym)

7. Strain Behavioral Science Building 8. North Hall Welcome Center9. Maltby Center10. President’s Residence11. Hickory Corner School House


reCommendaTion For Campus planninG proCess

The proposed Historic Campus District once had a more powerful architectural presence. A row of massive Victorian structures – Old Main, South Hall, the Chapel, North Hall, and the West Gym – lined the top of the Hill overlooking Main Street with an expanse of lawn and mature trees stretching from the buildings to the street. West Hall, a model school, stood in the foreground, nearest Main Street.Thenextgenerationofbuildingsstoodinanoutersemi-circletothenorthandeastofthefirstgeneration of structures. These mid-twentieth-century buildings included the McKay Educational Complex, the President’s Residence, Maltby Library, the Strain Science Building and the East Gym.

The original South Hall has been replaced with a more restrained but substantial structure but nothing remains at the original site of the Chapel and North Hall, leaving a large gap in the historic “line up” of hill-top structures.

Todaythereisnotasufficientcontinuityofcontextbetweenthehistoricstructurestorecommendthat the entire area be considered for National Register Listing. However, except for the additions of the Miller Auditorium and Alumni Center no new structures have been inserted within the historic campus core.

We recommend that the Slippery Rock Master Plan designate the area shown on the attached map as the “Slippery Rock College Heritage Area” and incorporate the following principals.

• If the Miller Auditorium is determined to be unusable in the future, return the area to open space.

• Designate the sites of the former Chapel and North Hall for new structures of similar scale to the buildings that originally stood there.

• Consider the two sites described above as the only allowable building sites within this district.

• New buildings should respond to the historic setting with masonry, texture, and color. We do not suggest they imitate lost buildings but it is important they reestablish the strong line of structures surrounding the historic greensward while also relating to the east campus.

• The stands of mature hardwood trees should be maintained and replaced as they deteriorate or die.


General

reCommendaTions


General reCommendaTions

The historic buildings of Slippery Rock University have been maintained with alterations and additions which have respected the historic character of each building.

General building recommendations applicable to all of the structures within the historic campus district follow.

Exteriors

Thecharacterofeachhistoricbuildingisdefinedbytheoriginalmaterialsanddetailsofthestructure. These include the roof covering, cornice details, exterior brick and stone, windows, doors, porches, railings and other exterior elements. Slippery Rock University has a history of maintaining these elements.

We recommend continuation of building exterior preservation practices with special attention to the following:

Roof coverings: When a roof covering must be replaced, use a new covering to match the historic one. Most roofs at Slippery Rock University were slate. This material, if installed using copper or terne coatedstainlesssteelflashing,isan80to100 year system, which has the advantage of having the lowest life cycle cost of all available options as well as being historically consistent with the original roof.

Cornices and exterior woodwork: Most cornices and exterior woodwork at Slippery Rock University are wood. At the time the buildings were constructed, high-quality old growth lumber was used for exterior wood trim. This is a very long-lasting material and, if the current program of continued repair and repainting is maintained, it will not require replacement except in areas of extreme exposure. For areas of extreme exposure, use of cementitious and polycarbon-based synthetic replacement materials, detailed to match the original, is recommended.

Windows: Double-hung wood and high quality steel casement windows are a characterdefiningfeatureofthebuildingsof the Slippery Rock University Historic Campus. Where windows are in fair condition and not subject to constant operation, retention of historic windows is preferable. Interior storm windows can be added in areas where heat loss or occupant comfort is a major concern.

Where windows must be replaced, a range of competing manufacturers should be

Slate roof covering

Exterior woodwork

Double hung windows


solicited to assure that the best matching design is provided. Depending on the specificdetailsofagivenwindow,differentmanufacturers will provide a better match.

Masonry: The proper cleaning and re-pointing of historic brick and stone is now well known in the construction industry and is detailed in Preservation Brief # by the National Park Service (available at http://www.phlf.org/news/faq/). These standards should be followed for all future masonry restoration.

Entrances and Corridors: Each historic structure has an entrance foyer, lobby, and central corridor system which together are the organizing design elements of the building. These design elements are further articulated with decorative architectural details. The details include floorsurfaces,baseboards,wainscoting,doors and door trim, ceiling mouldings, andhistoriclightingfixtures.Thesedetailsare typically most distinctive at the entry level but may exist throughout a building such as at Old Main and the West Gym.

We recommend that these materials and details be maintained and restored in all of the structures. Thespecificareasaremorefullydefinedwithineachindividualbuildingrecommendation.

Significant Interior Spaces

The historic buildings of Slippery Rock University include a number of interior spaces of exceptional quality. We recommend that the following interiors be preserved and/or restored as part of the Campus Preservation Plan.

Old Main • Public corridors. •Possiblyhistoricsecond-floorlibraryspace.

West Gym • Public corridors. •Second-floorconferenceroom. • Gymnasium.

North Hall • Entry Foyer. • Fireside Lounge. • University Room.

Maltby Hall • Reading rooms.

Old Main


landsCape, hardsCape, siTe liGhTinG

ThegeneralplansfromtheUniversityarchiveslistnospecificplantsorplantingcompositionsordesigns.Despitethelackofhistoricplans,futureplantingsshouldreflectthehistoricperiodwhenthe buildings were erected, to enhance the historic character of the Historic Heritage District of Slippery Rock University. We have included suggestions that are typical for historic areas in other regional colleges and universities. We also recommend preservation of the planting and landcaped areas from all future development, and we recommend that campus growth remain outside of this designated Heritage District. In addition, we have also offered recommendations on campus lighting.

Hardscape: In the Heritage Area, where hardscape is deteriorating, consider replacement with naturalmaterialssuchasflagstone,bluestoneorusingexposedaggregateconcrete,tumbledredbrickor cobblestone.

Vehicle Intrusion: Maintenance vehicles and automobiles seem to be the enemy of the lawn and planting areas in some places. Consider installing bollards with swag chains and cobblestone edging to mitigate tire damage.

Trees, Plantings, and Other Landscape Conditions

• Many plantings and trees appear neglected. It is recommended that a maintenance program that includes proper fertilizing and pruning be implemented either by the grounds crew or by a professional company or consultant.

• Remove dead wood from trees and thin remaining limbs. Do not “top” trees. This practice is considered detrimental to the natural growth and health of the tree, promoting “water sprouts” which weaken the structural integrity of the tree and otherwise ruin the natural canopy of the tree. Many diseases and insects are common in the region including red spider mites, canker, gall, spruce gall, anthracnose, leaf miners and adelgids.

• A maintenance routine of deep-root fertilizing and pruning of the historic trees should be considered every 2-3 years and a dormant oil application considered yearly in early spring. A follow-up program of summer insecticide and/or fungicide spray application should be instituted. Apply mulch around bases of trees at a maximum depth of 2 inches.

• Begin a tree replanting program anticipating the continued loss of existing mature trees. It is recommended that a mix of hybrid native and heirloom species such as “Winter King” hawthorn, Japanese tree lilac, hickory, Kousa dogwood, redbud, ponderosa pine and black gum, or other plants / trees listed on the Heirloom Plant Suggestion list (see page 24) be used.

• In areas where drainage is problematic consider planting water-tolerant trees and shrubs such as willow, black gum, bald cypress and winterberry holly.

• It is recommended that quality plant stock be purchased from a reputable local nursery or wholesale source. In cases where planting work is being subcontracted, inspect all plants thoroughly and request a 1-year guarantee.

• The majority of plantings are overly manicured and improperly pruned. The manicured condition of yews requires intensive and repeated maintenance. It is recommended that they be replaced with a compact and low-maintenance Wind damaged and dead branches should be trimmed

without topping trees.


evergreen such as dwarf chamecyparis or other shrubs listed on the Heirloom Plant Suggestion list. It is recommended that shearing of shrubs be discontinued. Instead hand pruning and thinning should be utilized to retain natural shape.

• In areas where the planting conditions are hot, dry and windy, the installation of irrigation systems is recommended.

• Consider a mix of hybrid native and heirloom species that are reminiscent of earlier historic campus plantings such as deciduous holly, mockorange, weigela, itea, clethra, calycanthus, hydrangea, beautyberry, red dogwood and shrub buckeye. Consider replanting entire foundation beds in keeping with the historical character.

• All lawns should be cut no shorter than thee inches, to reduce the need to irrigate, and to promote a healthy and disease free lawn.

Historic District Heirloom Plant Suggestions

Shrubs:

• Flowering almond (Prunus glandulosa)• Arrow-wood viburnum (Viburnum

dentatum)• Bayberry (Myrica pennsylvanica)• Chokeberry (Aronia arbutifolia)• Summersweet (Clethra alnifolia)• Currant (Ribies alpinum)• Deutzia (Deutzia gracilis)• Red-stemmed dogwood (Cornus

stolonifera)• Hydrangea –shrub and upright form

(Hydrangea paniculata and H. grandiflora)

• Kerria (Kerria japonica)• Lilac (Syringa vulgaris)• Mockorange (Philadelphus coronarius)• Nannyberry (Viburnum lentago)• Ninebark (Physocarpus opulifolius)• Pearlbush (Exochorda racemosa)• Smokebush (Cotinus coggygria)• Snowberry (Symphoricarpos alba)• Spicebush (Lindera benzoin)• Spirea – Japanese and cascading (Spirea

thunbergii and S. VanHouetti)• Sweetshrub (Calycanthus floridus)• Sumac –smooth and cutleaf (Rhus glabra

and R. typhina)• Witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana)

Example of a Yew allowed to grow unencumbered in its natural shape. Prune, don’t shear.

Example of a Yew shrub that has been over-manicured into a “gum ball,” an unnatural shape for this plant.

Example of the refreshing blossoms of the Redbud (Cercis canadensis).


Trees:

• American beech (Fagus grandiflora)• Catalpa (Catalpa speciosa)• Cherry (Prunus subhirtella)• Chestnut (horse) (Aesculus

hippocastanum)• Cornelian cherry dogwood (Cornus mas)• Crabapple (Malus ‘Sugartyme’; Malus

‘Donald Wyman’) *disease resistant• Hawthorn –English and Washington

(Crataegus laevigata and C. phaenopyrum)

• Linden –Littleleaf and American (Tilia cordata and T. americana)

• Magnolia –Cucumber and Sweetbay (Magnolia acuminata and M. virginiana)

• Maple-Japanese and Red (Acer palmatum and A. rubrum)

• Oak –English and Willow (Quercus robur and Q. phellos)

• Plane tree –London (Platanus x acerifolia)

• Pagoda tree ( Sophora japonica)• Rain tree (Koelreuteria paniculata)• Redbud (Cercis canadensis)• Serviceberry (Amelanchier canadensis

and A. laevis)• Sorrel tree (Oxydendron arboreum)• Sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua)• Tulip tree (Liriodendron tulipifera)• Tupelo (blackgum) (Nyssa sylvatica)• Walnut (Juglans nigra)• Yellowwood (Cladrastis kentuckea)

Example of the airy Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum)

Example of the Ninebark (Physocarpus opulifolius)

Example of the stately Tupelo (blackgum) (Nyssa sylvatica).

Example of the color of the Serviceberry (Amelanchier canadensis)


Lighting

The campus should replace lighting fixtureswithinthehistoriccampuswithnineteenth century or early twentieth centuryinspiredfixtures.

Limit or hide light sources that shine into eyes, or that obscure the view of a building byinstallingfixturesthatareeithershielded or that are hidden tastefully within the architectural fabric of the University.

Whilenotspecificallyapreservationactivity, Slippery Rock should consider designinglightingforthesignificantbuildings and architectural details such as cupolas, arches, clock towers, roof lines, landscapes, statues, stained glass, etc.

Artistic lighting of the Campus Heritage District will showcase the uniqueness of the campus, while simultaneously creatingawarmandinvitingvisualfieldfor students and staff walking through the campus at night. Reduction of direct–walk lighting adjacent to the buildings, i.e. pole and spot lighting, may be eliminated, mitigating increases in energy consumption.

Lighting of the Campus Heritage District can be addressed within the educational programming by considering a design challenge for the students. The challenge could include the use of alternative energy sources, such as wind, solar or other green, experimental, or research-related power generating sources and could consider advantageous placement of the generating source in terms of obtaining the most energy possible while being as inconspicuous as possible. State and federal funding programs or tax credits may exist to offset renewable and green energy initiatives.

Archival Resources

The Facilities Department has original drawings of all of the historic buildings except Old Main, West Gym, and West Hall. It has renovation drawings for these three buildings which in many cases identify historic elements in the existing conditions or demolition set. The Eckles Company has original drawings of all buildings designed by them in their New Castle archives. The Butler Library Archives has historic photographs of the historic buildings and historic campus views.

These archival resources should be consulted when future repairs and rehabilitation projects are planned within the Slippery Rock Historic District.

Up-lighting with high pressure sodium lamps. The Landmarks Building at Station Square, the former Pittsburgh & Lake Erie Railroad terminal.

The upper spire has been lighted in a cool metal halide lamp while the lower building is lighted in a warm high pressure sodium vapor light

Solar power generation, an alternative green and renewable energy resource that can be included in lighting historic resources.


individual

reCommendaTions


easT Gym (pearl k. sToner insTruCTional Complex)

The East Gym of 1930 is a major addition to the original Gymnasium Building of 1902. The building includes a lap pool in the section which links the main east gymnasium to the original gym.

Long –Term Recommendation Restore the historic entry including the cut limestone surround and multi-paned entry doors. This detail was the chief architecturalflourishofEastGymandisillustrated in the historic photo on page 55. View of East Gym

Detail of Entry

Conjectural plan, East Gymnasium


roberT a. lowry CenTer

Originally constructed in 1928 in a simplifiedcottagestyleastheprivateresidence of Professor Howard Headland, this house was later acquired by Slippery Rock and used for a variety of college administrativeoffices.Thebuildingretainsmost of its original detailing from its original construction as a residence.

Long –Term Recommendations

Exterior: Restore steel windows. Install new dimensional shingle or composite slate roof. Repair and repaint exposed raftersandboardedsoffits.

Interior: Retain historic woodwork at doors, windows and stairs. If renovations are made, retain general interior character of the rooms.

Site:Thesitewouldbenefitfrommoreopen landscaping. The large evergreens should be removed from the areas immediately adjoining the house and replaced with lower, more open plantings. The site and the adjoining President’s House site should be considered together in future landscape planning.

Front View

Cornice detail

Conjectural Drawings of the Robert A. Lowry Center


malTby CenTer

Maltby Hall was originally constructed as the library in 1939. It was expanded in 1960 and convertedtoofficeusein1971.Thisstudyfocusesontheoriginalhistoricsectionofthebuilding which retains its central foyer and two reading-room spaces, now adapted for other uses.

Long –Term Recommendations

Exterior:. Continue program of exterior maintenance and preservation of roof, exterior woodwork, windows, doors, and masonry.

Interior: Continue respectful reuse of vestibule, foyer, and reading room spaces. Consider restoring the space adjoining the foyer to be more in keeping with its original design. Entry facade

Foyer ceiling detail Former reading room

Entry vestibule Exterior detail


Conjectural drawing of Maltby Center


mCkay eduCaTion buildinG

The McKay Education Center was constructed in 1929 to serve both as the Borough of Slippery Rock’s School and as a training facility for Slippery Rock College. An addition was constructed on the west side in 1938. Today the building houses Slippery Rock University’s College of Education. The building is in good condition.

Long – Term Recommendations

Windows: The windows have been replaced with translucent panels. When the next window replacement program is scheduled consider installing replicas of the original multi-paned clear glass windows. Window technology has improved since the 1970s when these translucent panels were likely installed so that windows which match the originals can be installed which will also have excellent thermal and light control characteristics.

Ornamental Stone: The entrances and parapets of McKay contain decorative panels of ornamental stone. The weather facing (top) joints should be kept in good repairtopreventwaterinfiltrationandthe stone should be periodically cleaned with a mild detergent and moderate water pressure wash.

Ornamental Railings: Three sections of ornamental railings are installed at the three windows above the main entrance. These should be thoroughly cleaned and repainted.

Interior: The interior renovations to date have maintained historic doors, transoms, sidelights and oak trim. These elements should be retained in future renovations.

Entry vestibule

Entry facade

Typical Corridor Doors


Conjectural plan of McKay Education Building


norTh hall

North Hall, constructed in 1938 as a Women’s Dormitory, is the college’s oldest residence hall. In addition to providing dormitoryspace,thefirstfloorcontainsprincipal social and dining spaces including the Fireside Lounge, the University Room, and the Pennsylvania Room.

North Hall is important because of its location in a prominent position adjoining OldMainandbecauseitsfirst–floorpublic spaces contain a high degree of architectural design and detail which have remained intact from their original construction.


Exterior: Continue program of exterior preservation and maintenance.

Interior Finishes: When repainting is required at the interior public rooms, consider repainting using the historic colors on ceilings, walls, mouldings, and woodwork.

Main stair windows: The main stair window is currently glass block. Consider restoring the window to its original appearance based on the original drawings.

Stair newel detail

Front facade

University Room

Foyer

Fireside Lounge


Conjectural plan of North Hall

Courtyard View


old main

Old Main is the oldest building on the Slippery Rock University campus and is themostsignificantarchitecturalstructure.Constructed in 1892 to designs by the well-known New-Castle-based architect, Sidney Foulk, the structure originally housed classroomsaswellasofficesonthefirstfloor,thelibraryonthesecondfloor,andthegymnasiumonthethirdfloor.

At the end of the nineteenth century fourmagnificentmonumentalVictorianstructures lined the crest of the hill overlooking Main Street and provided all of the built facilities for Slippery Rock College; of these only Old Main still stands today. Old Main currently houses administrativeoffices.


Exterior: The exterior has been maintained with a new composite slate roof and ongoing repairs to the tower and masonry. In the long term we recommend that the masonry be cleaned and re-pointed following the National Park Service Guidelines (available at http://www.phlf.org/news/faq/) and the windows be restored to their original pattern,detail,andconfiguration.Earlyphotographs illustrate a saw tooth detail on the transom bars of the exterior windows that has been covered over. This will require uncovering of the historic frames and creation of interior bulkheads at the lowered ceilings so the window sash and glazing can be restored to their full height.

Interior:Wewereunabletolocatehistoricdrawingsofthesecond-floorlibraryspace but historic photos are included in the history section of this report. The library spacepossessedsignificantarchitecturalcharacter and detail, now obscured, behind newer dropped ceilings and partition walls. If future programming determines a need for a large public space in this section of the campus, explorations should be made to determine the original nature and extent of the library space to see if it is a candidate for such a restoration and reuse.

Main corridors: The historic woodwork, wainscoting, staircases, and doors have been retained in the main corridors. In the future consider restoring the ceilings to their original heights along with associated mouldings, trim, and lighting.

Main Facade

Old Main

Entry detail


North stair

Main hall

Main stair

Conjectural plan of Old Main


presidenT’s residenCe

The President’s Residence was designed by W. G. Eckles Company and built in 1939 in the Colonial Revival style. It is a classic, center-stair-hall design with a living room and den on the right side of the hall and a dining room on the left. In 2003 the dining room was enlarged to include the entire left side of the original house, and a major addition was constructed to the north to accommodate a kitchen, garages, and storage areas.

Long – Term Recommendation

The building has recently undergone major restoration and additions. The future requires only continued care of the historic details including woodwork, mantles and hardware.

Main facade

South facade

Living room mantle Den mantle


Center hall

Conjectural plans of President’s House


sTrain sCienCe buildinG

The Strain Science Building was constructed in 1938 to house the physical and chemical science departments. Similar in style to the McKay Educational Building,Strainhashigh-qualityfinishesinthecorridorswithterrazzofloorsandglazed-tile wainscoting.

Long Term Recommendations

Exterior: Clean and repaint lintels. Clean and repoint exterior masonry.

Interior: When additional renovations are required, consider returning ceilings to original heights and installing a lighting system that complements the high level of finishwithinthecorridorsandstairwells.

Entry detail

Strain Science Building

Stair detail Door detail


Conjectural drawing of Strain Science Building


pearl k. sToner insTruCTional Complex (wesT Gymnasium)

The West Gym is one of Slippery Rock’s National Register eligible structures. Designed by Sidney Foulk, the building sports two bold stone porches on the exterior and houses a variety of interior functions in addition to the gymnasium. The West Gym and Old Main anchor the ends of the original row of historic structures which lined the top of the hill overlooking Main Street


Exterior:Thecornice,soffit,andwest-porchceilinghave been covered in aluminum. In the long term this should be removed and the original elements should be restored.

Turret: Historic photographs show either decorative panels or windows in the center raised turreted roof. Plan for restoration of this item in the future.

Interior: The building has recently been restored on the interior. Future repairs and rehabilitation programs should continue the program of retention and restoration of historic interior spaces and details.Itislikelythatthecenter-secondfloorroomoriginally included a more elaborate ceiling open to the turreted roof above.

West porch

View of West Gym

Detail of main porch

Mosaic of main entry

First-floor foyer


Detail of historic door soffit Gymnasium space

Conjectural drawing of the Stoner Instructional Complex (West Gym)


drs. paul and Carolyn CarruTh rizza hall (wesT hall)

West Hall, designed by Frank Foulk, was constructed as a Model School Building in 1902 and was completely restored in 2003.


Continue program of maintenance of exterior brick, stone, and woodwork.

Atrium

Historic front view

Modern day front


Atrium detail

Conjectural drawing of the Stoner Instructional Complex (West Gymnasium)


hiCkory sChoolhouse

The Hickory Schoolhouse is an excellent example of the once ubiquitous frame one-room schoolhouse which stood throughout the region as well as most of rural America. This building was built in nearby Franklin Township around 1860 and moved to the Slippery Rock Campus in 1998.

Long – Term Recommendation

Exterior. This wooden structure will require ongoing care of the exterior wood siding and trim. Front view

Rear view


individual hisTories, surveys,

and immediaTe mainTenanCe issues


ChronoloGy oF ConsTruCTion oF The hisToriC Campus

Gymnasiums (now Stoner Instructional Complex)Hickory SchoolhouseLowry CenterMaltby HallMcKay Education BuildingNorth HallOld MainPresident’s ResidenceStrain Science BuildingWest Hall (now Rizza)Campus Site

Existing Buildings1891 Old Main1902 West Hall (now Rizza Hall)1906 West Gym (now Stoner West)1928 Lowry Center1929 McKay Education Center, Addition 19381930 East Gym (now Stoner East)1938 Strain Science Building1938 North Hall1939 Maltby Library, Addition 19591939 President’s Residence

Moved Buildings1860 Hickory Schoolhouse, moved onto campus 1988

Demolished Buildings1889 Original South Hall, burned 18951889 Original Chapel, burned 18961889 Original North Hall, burned 19371896 South Hall, demolished 19621897 Chapel, demolished 19711930 The Hut, Art Building constructed on the site, 1969


hisTory oF Campus siTe

1888 Purchase of original ten acre-site.c.1894 AdditionallandpurchasedalongMainStreet.“LongWalk”firstconstructedof

planks, later rebuilt in cement.1906 The “Sidney Foulk” campus is established with the construction of West Gym. In a

broad irregular arc, West Hall, Old Main, North Hall, the Chapel, South Hall, and the West Gym surround the large greensward with the Long Walk and its accompanying access drive running from Main Street to the Chapel.

1930 Building program included the Training School (now McKay) and the East Gym.1938 Planspubliclyannouncedforfivenewbuildings:NorthHall,aScienceBuilding

(now Strain), the President’s Residence, a Library (now Maltby), and an addition to the Training School (now McKay).

1942 aerial view of campus showing most buildings in this study except the President’s house, Lowry, and McKay, off to the left of the photo, and the Model School at the lower left.

A drawing of the ”Foulk” Campus as it would have appeared from 1906 until the East Gym and the Training School were added to the periphery in 1930.


A panoramic photograph of the campus sometime after the construction of the West Gym in 1906.

1912 view of campus showing Old Main and North Hall

A mid-20th century view of the “Long Walk”


Gymnasiums – sToner eduCaTion Complex

Building Survey, Existing Historic Materials and Details

History of Design and Alterations

Designer of West Gym – Sidney W. Foulk

Designer of East Gym – W. G. Eckles.

1906 West Gym opened.

1930 East Gym opened. Original drawings by W. G. Eckles dated 9/16/1929.

1982 Restoration Work – L. D. Astorino & Associates

1988 Renovations – Bureau of Engineering & Construction

1998 Renovations – Foreman Architects & Engineers.

Existing Historic Materials and Details

Roof • Dark grey asphalt shingles on sloped

roofs. Good condition.•Boxguttersandsoffitandfasciacladin

aluminum.• Flat roofs not visible.

Masonry• Tan/orange running-bond brick in good

condition.

Windows• 1/1 double-hung aluminum replacement

windows.• False muntons added in windows at East

Gym.

Cornices•Aluminumcladsoffitandfasciaatwest

gym.• Modest wood cornice with aluminum K gutter atop at East Gym.

Entry Porches • West Gym porch reconstructed 2005.•WestGymentryporchisalargehalf-round,stoneporchunderasecond-floorcentralroom.

Exterior Doors • Modern single-glazed opening over single panel hollow metal door at West Gym.• Modern aluminum and glass-entry system at East Gym.

1919 view of West Gym. Note details at cornices and central turret, now lost.

Early view of East Gym showing original stone entry.


Other Exterior Features• Large elliptical topped windows in gable ends of East Gym.•Stonecorniceandfasciabeltcourseatsecond-floorlevelofWestGym.• Large columned porch on west side of West Gym.

Entry Foyers •EastGymentryfoyerhasterrazzofloorandsteps,andorangebrickwainscoting.• See West Gym entry hall.

Principal Rooms

West Gym• Beaded board wainscoting at main level and former track level. Dentil trim and large cove at

ceiling. Two ceiling openings for former skylights or ventilation. Running track removed.

West Gym Entry Hall•Thespaceappearstoretainitsoriginalconfigurationandsomeofitsoriginalwoodwork,notablythepaneledsoffitsofentrydoorstothecentraloffice.Otherwoodworkisamoderncopyofearlystyles.Ceilingandflooringdatesfromrecentrenovations.

West Gym Second Floor Hall•Thisspaceissimilartothefirst-floorentryhall.

Interior Doors • All doors in West Gym are modern 2-panel wood doors.

Interior Woodwork • West Gym is a mix of historic woodwork and new woodwork modeled after the historic.

Building Code Issues with Historic Preservation Implications

Exit Stairs • Provided to code.

Fire Ratings at Open Floors • N/A

Accessibility Code Issues with Historic Preservation Implications

Areas of Refuge• Yes.

Elevators• Yes.

Entry Steps• Historic entries have steps but an accessible entry is provided to the West Gym and one is being

constructed during the preparation of this report to the East Gym.

Public Restrooms• Accessible.


Recommendations for Maintenance for Years 1 Through 3

• Repaint structural steel above portico columns.

Run downspouts to rain leader system.

Re-set level, and caulk,, the stone stairs to entrances.Prune tree branches back slightly, to allow better lighting for sidewalk.

Repair stone around penetrations.

Repair stone columns, bases, and capitals as needed.Remove extraneous cable clamps from masonry.


Examine roof, downspouts, and capstones for leakage that may possibly be causing masonry issues.

Consider extending handrails to full distance of stairs.

Repair and seal windowsills as needed.

Repair concrete stairs.

Repair masonry as needed to match existing

Re-caulk glass block around windows as needed.

Clean and re-paint steel window lintels as needed.


hiCkory sChoolhouse


Vernacular

1860 Approximate date of construction in Franklin Township.

1963 Last use as a schoolhouse.

1989 Building given to Slippery Rock University. Moved to a site on the Slippery Rock University campus north of the East Gym.

1998 Building moved to present site on Slippery Rock University campus. Building sits on a new foundation.


Roof • Variegated slate in fair condition.• Slate on extension has a scalloped edge.• Half round galvanized gutter in fair condition.

Masonry • Wood siding in fair condition.• Building sits on a brick foundation constructed in 1998 when the structure was moved to this site.

Windows• 2/2 double-hung wood windows in fair condition.• Window surrounds have incised decorative patterns.

Cornices• Simple boxed wood cornice with edge board at face of gable end.

Entry Porches • Modest wood entry vestibule at west end.

Exterior Doors • Horizontally paneled wood doors in fair-to-good condition.

Other Exterior Features• Bell cupola at west end.

Entry Foyers • None.

Principal Rooms

• This “one-room schoolhouse” has a single room with ceiling and walls made of painted boards.

Interior Doors • None

Front vew


Interior Woodwork • All interior woodwork is made of rectangular cut trim, painted. In addition to trim at baseboard,

windows, and doors, the trim boards have been used at the traditional location of a ceiling cornice.


Exit Stairs • N/A



Areas of Refuge• N/A

Elevators• N/A

Entry Steps• None at east entry.• Building is accessible.

Steps within Historic Spaces• N/A

Public Restrooms• N/A

Repair wood exterior siding as needed to match original.

Repair entry stairs and landing to match original.

Replace gutters and downspouts to match original.Repaint bell tower.


lowry house


Designer unknown.

1928: Building constructed as a private residence by Professor Howard Headland.

Unknown: Building purchased by the College.

1998: Building dedicated in honor of Dr. Robert Lowry.


Roof • Grey asphalt shingles• Shingles appear to be over twenty years old• Hanging aluminum K gutters in poor condition

Masonry •Brownbrick,striatedfinishwithbuffmortaringoodcondition• Brick lintels and sills

Windows• Steel multi-paned casement windows• Lower frames are rusting• Extensive paint and glazing compound build-up

Early view of Lowry House


Cornices•Simple“stickstyle”corniceswithexposedraftersandboardedsoffits• Peeling paint• Deterioration at areas where gutters have leaked

Entry Porches • Central gable-roofed front-entry porch• Two brick pillars• Beaded board ceiling

Exterior Doors • Main door has new door but original wood multi-paned sidelights.• Side and rear doors are original wood doors with glass panes over horizontal panels.

Other Exterior Features• Simple gable-roofed detached garage appears to be contemporaneous with the house.• Gable end masonry matches house.• Rock-faced concrete block is used on the other three elevations.

Entry Foyers • Entry hall

Principal Rooms•Firstfloorrightroom

Interior Doors • Interior doors are original

Interior Woodwork • Interior woodwork is original


Exit Stairs • N/A.

Fire Ratings at Open Floors • N/A.


Areas of Refuge• N/A.

Elevators• N/A.

Steps within Historic Spaces• Original central open stair.

Public Restrooms• Not accessible.


Recommendations for Maintenance for years 1 through 3

Scrape, prime, and repaint the soffit, fascia, and doors.

Scrape, prime, and repaint the casement windows.

Repair, scrape, prime, and repaint the garage door.

Clean and repaint the window lintels

Consider a more traditional light fixture for the front entry when possible.

Consider a handrail at front entrance


malTby hall



Designed by W. G. Eckles Company.

1939: Opened. Original drawings dated 8/16/37. The building was designed as a library with the main reading room and reference roomflankingthecentralentrance. The building was originally named Maltby Library.

1959: One-story addition. Schmitt & Lynott Associates.

1971:Buildingconvertedtoofficeuse.

1972: Air conditioning upgrades. R. Bruce Miller

2005: Exterior renovations. 4-Most Group.


Roof • Composite slate roof in good condition.• Partially built in aluminum “K” gutter in good condition.• Flat roof at center rear section.

Masonry• Flemish bond brick in good condition. • Stone window sills.

Windows• Multi-paned aluminum double-hung aluminum replacement windows.

Cornices• Painted wood cornice in good condition.• Historic section has a more elaborate cornice with dentil moulding.

Entry Porches •Mainentryisatransomandsidelightentrydoorsurroundedbydecorativeflutedpilastersonthe

side, and a classical broken pediment above.• 4 Steps and an open landing lead to the entrance.

Exterior Doors • Modern aluminum entry doors.

Other Exterior Features• Painted wood cupola with metal roof.• Multiple oculus windows or vents in gable ends.• Decorative stone panels in north and south gable ends.

Interior of Maltby Library


Entry Foyers •Terrazzofloorwith4stepstoanupperlanding.• Stained paneled wainscoting.• Stained wood trim and plaster crown moulding.• Historic paneled doors.• Inner set of multi-paned historic wood doors with transom.

Principal Rooms

Entry Space• Decorative woodwork at ceiling• Medallions at upper walls• Simple column caps

Art Gallery• Built-in book cases along the walls of the room and decorative band moulding even with the top of

the windows remains from the original room. Career Services Office• This room retains the same original details as the Art Gallery space.

Interior Doors • Except for the inner set of main vestibule doors, all doors are from later renovations.

Interior Woodwork •Thewoodworkinthemainentryvestibule,entryfoyer,gallery,andCareerServicesofficeis

original.


Exit Stairs All exit stairs are within the 1959 addition

Fire Ratings at Open Floors N/A


Areas of RefugeN/A

ElevatorsN/A

Entry StepsAccessible entry to main level provided at south entry.

Steps within Historic SpacesEntry foyer contains 5 terrazzo steps.

Repair stone sills as needed to match original


Public RestroomsAccessible on main level.

Recommendations for Maintenance for Years 1 through 3

Consider adding appropriate plantings around the gas meter and HVAC equipment in order to mask presence near the building.

When necessary to replace the roof step flashing, con-sider using copper in lieu of aluminum coil stock

Re-point as needed to match existing mortar joints

Clean and repaint the door lintelRepair buldge in brick cheek wall of the basement access

Repair capstone as needed to match original and re-attach the handrail at the proper height

Consider installing steel pipe chase through masonry for penetrations to avoid the possible damage to masonry joints and brick

Use more compatible products when repairing stone stairs


mCkay eduCaTion buildinG




1929: Opened. The building was designed as both a community school for Slippery Rock and for college use.

1937: West wing addition – W. G. Eckles Company, Architects.

1977: Repairs - Bureau of Engineering and Architecture.

1994: Mechanical and electrical upgrades – Caplan Engineering. BHKR Architects.


Roof • Flat roof is inaccessible.

Masonry• Running-bond brick is in good condition,• Limestone trim at parapet, base, lintels, and sills.• Ornamental stone surrounds at entry doors.• Some rusting at steel lintels and minor popping at stone lintels.

Windows•AnodizedaluminumframeswithfixedKal-wallpanelsaboveandhopperwindowsbelow.

View of the Training School shortly after completion in 1929


Cornices• None.•Thebuildingisaflatroofwithparapetsidewalls.

Entry Porches • Single or paired steps lead to a landing at each of 3 front entries.• The main front center entry has an accessible ramp to one side.

Exterior Doors • Modern aluminum door assemblies.

Other Exterior Features• Ornamental ironat3second-floorwindowsabovemainentranceisshowingsignsofsignificant

rusting.• Lower side entry at 1938 addition.

Entry Foyers • Main Entry. Brick wainscoting.• Simple plaster crown moulding.• Inner set of historic oak and glass doors and sidelight.

Principal Rooms

First and Second Floor Main Front Corridors. • Brick wainscoting. • Ceilinghas been lowered andnewerfloor coveringhas been addedbut original doors and

woodwork remain.

Interior Doors • Doors facing principal corridors are largely original paneled wood doors with multi-paned glazing.

Interior Woodwork • Woodwork facing principal corridors is largely original stained oak woodwork.

Building & Accessibility Code Issues with Preservation Implications

Exit Stairs • Yes.




Elevators• Yes.

Entry Steps• Accessible entries are provided on the south and north.


Public Restrooms• Accessible restrooms are provided.



Check stained glass for possible water infiltration around fenestrations.

Clean masonry around windows and metal grills

Repaint wrought iron at second floor of façade

Repair spalling in stone foundation

Clean and repaint window lintels as needed

Repair concrete walk near ADA ramp

Repair masonry joints as needed to match original color and texture


norTh hall




1938: Opened. Original drawings are dated 1/06/1938.

1950: Kitchen renovations – Rust Engineering.

1961: Sidewalk elevator added – W. G. Eckles Company, Architects.

1969: Plumbing renovations – Bureau of Engineering and Construction.

1971: Electrical renovations – Hunter, Heiger, & Associates.

1984: Alumni Room renovations – Lee Ligo & Associates.

1995: Heating and plumbing renovations – Clark Wallace, RA.

2002: Welcome Center Renovations - R3A Architects.


Roof • Composite slate roof in good condition.• Built-in gutter appears to be in very good condition.

Masonry• Flemish-bond brick is in good condition. Brick quoins at corners.•Limestonebeltcourseatsecondfloor.• Limestone window sills.• Moulded brick foundation course.

Windows• Multi-paned aluminum double-hung windows are in good condition.

Cornices• Colonial bracketed wood cornice in good condition.

Entry Porches • Main entry is a 3-bay classical 2-story wood-entry portico in good condition.• South entry includes a 1-story brick extension with ornamental stone balustrade above the entry dooranda1-storyflat-roofedporchontwosimpleroundcolumns.

Exterior Doors • White anodized aluminum entry doors.

Other Exterior Features• Bay windows on north and south facade.• Multiple oculus windows in gable ends.•Ornamentalstonepanelsabovewindowsflankingmainentrance.• Aluminum clad cupola.


Entry Foyers •Marblefloor,woodwainscoting,simpleplastercrownmouldingatceiling.• Inner set of multi-paned wood vestibule doors.

Principal Rooms

Central Lobby•Marblefloor,paintedwoodbeamedceiling,paneled-woodwainscoting.• Dentiled cornice and pilastered trim on 3 sides of room.• Arched surround at door to courtyard.• Ornamental iron stair.

Fireside Lounge• Decorative beamed ceiling.•Paneledandwainscotedwalls,painted.Multicoloredquarry-tilefloor.• Fireplace with classical mantle and marble hearth. Presentation Room• This room has been modernized but elements of historic wall panels, window trim, and

wainscoting are still visible.

South Study Lounge•Two-colorterrazzofloor• Wood wainscoting. Ornamental frieze and crown moulding. • Acoustic ceiling panels have been added within beamed areas.

Interior Doors •Generallyoriginaldoorsatfirst-floorpublicspaces.

Interior Woodwork •Generallyoriginalwoodworkatfirst-floorpublicspaces.


Exit Stairs • Properly placed and rated.



Areas of Refuge• Not required• Building is fully sprinklered.

Elevators• None

Entry Steps• Accessible ramps are provided.

Steps within Historic Spaces• A lift is provided in the Welcome Center.•Themaindecorativestairhasafire-ratedenclosureatthesecondlevel.



Recommendations for Maintenance for years 1 through 3

Reconnect downspouts as needed

Repair concrete walk near ADA ramp

Repair stone threshold

Check foundations, surface drainage, lintels, mortar joints, or other areas that may cause fractures in exterior brick

Re-point the masonry band and sills above the first floor as needed

Re-point the masonry joints to match original around bay window. Clean brick with a mild masonry cleaner to remove paint as needed.

Consider exposing the building’s dated cornerstone so that it is more easily noticed.


old main



Designed by Sidney W. Foulk, Architect.

1893:Opened.Thebuildingoriginallyheldclassroomsonthefirstfloor,alibraryonthesecondfloor,andagymnasiumonthethirdfloor.

1929: Four clock faces and operating mechanisms installed by H. Clyde McLaine as a gift of the class of 1929.

1936:“TheLibrary...wasstilllocatedonthethirdfloorofOldMain.”* “The Department of Science... in the cramped basement of Old Main.” *

1946: West gable wall damaged by tornado.

1955: Roof replaced – Bureau of Engineering and Construction.

1971: Fire escape added – Reiling Manufacturing.

1978: Masonry re-pointed – Bureau of Engineering and Construction.

1989: Heating and cooling upgrades – Bureau of Engineering and Construction.

1999: Elevator added – Mavrovic Architects. * From “The Legend Behind the Name”

Old Main in historic postcard.



Roof • Appears to be composite material imitating slate.

Masonry• Common bond brick in good condition. • Rock-faced stone lintels. • Cut stone sills. • Decorative stone at main entrance.• Stone or terra-cotta trim at rear gable.

A view of the second-floor library space at Old Main. This space has now been subdivided.

Student Body


Windows• Aluminum replacement windows have been installed with blank panels above to accommodate

interior dropped ceiling.

Cornices• None.• A single fascia board edges the brick just below the hanging gutters.

Entry Porches • Main entry porch (south) is deeply recessed with ornamental stone arch and beaded board ceiling.• East. Concrete ramp to aluminum entry door within historic opening.• West. Newer entry leading to automobile drop off area.

Exterior Doors • Main entrance doors are modern oak paneled and glazed doors designed in a style sympathetic to

the era of the building.

Other Exterior Features• The clock and bell tower dominates the exterior. The clock faces were added around 1995. The

openings at the bell level are enclosed in wire mesh. The tower is designed in brick with rock-faced stone belt courses and opening surrounds.

Entry Foyers •Seefirst-floorlobby.

Principal Rooms

First Floor Lobby• Original central staircase, wood

wainscoting, original paneled wood doors with transoms. Newer terrazzo-tilefloorandceilingtreatments.

Stair• All three stairs retain original newel

posts, balusters and railings. The west stair wood-and-glass enclosure appears to date from the mid-20th century.

Interior Doors • Many interior doors and associated

hardware facing the principal corridors appear to be original.

Interior Woodwork • Most of the woodwork facing the

principal corridors appears to be original.


Exit Stairs • The building has two enclosed exit

stairs.Examine existing aluminum coil stock and / or caulk-ing to determine cause of white staining to masonry. Resolve this issue and clean as needed.

Re-route cables running from basement window up the exterior of the building and into the second floor window, to an interior chase when possible. Consider running cable behind the downspout in the interim.




Areas of Refuge• Provided.

Elevators• An elevator was installed around 1999.

Entry Steps• An accessible ramp is provided at the east

entry.


Public Restrooms• Provided.


Repair leaking gutter at the northeast side of building above the radius of the masonry.

Suggest that, when possible, change of the existing windows back to their original style and fenestration

Repair masonry pointing as needed to match original

Caulk, re-glaze, and paint windows and trim as neededRepair concrete walks as needed

Check window lintels and repaint as needed

Remove the extraneous cable clamps from the masonry at the northeast side of the building


presidenTs house




1939: Opened. Original drawings dated 8/18/1937.

1962: HVAC renovations.

1984: HVAC renovations.

1985: Electrical renovations.

2003: General renovations and additions. R3A Architects.


Roof • Grey asphalt shingle roof in good condition.

Masonry • Flemish bond brick in good condition.

Windows• Modern double-hung aluminum windows with insert multi-paned mullions.

Cornices• Colonial Revival wood cornices with shallow brackets and consoles in good condition.

Entry Porches • Half-round Colonial Revival porch on four columns.•Simplecorniceandsimpleironrailingatflatroof.

Exterior Doors • 6 paned Colonial Revival door with sidelights and elliptical transom at main entrance.• Multi-paned glass door with transom in Colonial Revival frame at north entry.

Other Exterior Features•Exteriorchimneyonnorthandsouthgablewallsflankedbyquarterroundlunettewindowsatattic

level.• Three simple clapboard dormers on front roof slope.•One-storysunporchextensiononsouthsidewithbrickpiersandironrailingatflat-roofedparapet

area.• Paneled shutters at main facade windows.

Entry Foyers Entry hall.

Principal Rooms

Living•Originalwoodwork.ColonialRevivalmantleandmarblesurroundatfireplace.

Main Facade


Den•Extensivepanelingandbuilt-inbookcasesatfireplacewall.

Interior Doors • Interior doors are largely original in the 1939 portion of the house.

Interior Woodwork • Woodwork is largely original in the 1939 portion of the house.


Exit Stairs • N/A



Areas of Refuge• N/A

Elevators• N/A

Entry Steps• Main entry is accessible.

Steps within Historic Spaces• Historic stair at Main Hall.



Completely restored, no noted concerns


sTrain sCienCe buildinG




1938: Building opened. Original drawings dated 9/30/1937.

1976: New heating system – Bureau of Engineering and Architecture.

1994: MEP renovations – Baker and Associates.


Roof • Flat roof not visible.

Masonry • Flemish-bond red brick in fair condition. Steel lintels are beginning to show signs of rust.• Limestone or cast-stone window sills, belt courses, and foundation. Dirt build up in areas.

Windows• Multi paned aluminum replacement windows. 6/6 with transom panels.

Cornices• Limestone cornices/parapet wall caps in fair condition

Entry Porches • Main entry is a concrete landing with steps and ramp approach. Door surround is a classical cast stone

surround with pilasters, cornice, and broken pediment. “Science Hall” is incised below the cornice.

An early view of the Science Building


Exterior Doors • Modern aluminum and glass-entry system.

Other Exterior Features• N/A

Entry Foyers •Terrazzofloor,glazed-tilewainscoting.

Principal Rooms

First-floor hall. •Terrazzofloor.• Glazed-tile wainscoting. • Acoustical ceiling. •Flushdoorswith4lightsinprofiledmetalframes.

Interior Doors • Most appear to be original.

Interior Woodwork • Most appear to be original.


Exit Stairs • Two stairs are well placed.



Areas of Refuge• Stair landings appear large enough to

accommodate.

Elevators• Yes.

Entry Steps• Accessible ramp provided.



Early view



Scrape, prime and repaint the windows lintels. Replace where needed

Re-point masonry joints as needed. Match mortar color and texture to original

Repair concrete cheek-walls and concrete sidewalks as needed

Re-route relief vent away from stairs to eliminate possible slipping

Repair or replace bricks that have spalled to match existing

Re-caulk joints around door and window fenestrations as needed

Repaint rooftop HVAC equipment to blend with surrounding elements of the building


Consider extending handrail at stairs. Check height of rail (above and below) it appears to be lower than other railings. Paint iron rails as needed


rizza hall (Formerly wesT hall)



Designed by Frank Foulk.

1900: Building opened. The building was designed as a “Model School.”

2003: Building was completely remodeled to house the Modern Languages and International Initiatives Departments.


Roof • Composite slate in good condition.

Masonry• Running-bond tan brick with rough-faced stone trim in good condition.

Windows• New aluminum double-hung windows.• Specialty aluminum windows at stair landings.

Cornices• Wood “stick style” eaves at gabled sections.• Painted wood eaves at center sections.

Entry Porches •Historicmainentryonsouthelevation(nowsealed)tilefloor,stonesteps.• Beaded board ceiling.


• Simple hipped roofs and porches at exit stairs at east and west.• Modern entry added at north elevation 2003.

Exterior Doors • Flush aluminum doors at exit stairs.• Modern aluminum and glass doors at new north entry.

Other Exterior Features• N/A

Entry Foyers •Simpleentryhasbeencreatedatcenterofnorthsideoffirstfloor.•Newwoodfloor.

Principal Rooms

Atrium• Restored balcony woodwork. • New balcony railing. • Paneled and beaded board ceiling and multi-paned glass skylight have been restored. Most doortrimappearsoriginal.Doorsandfloorfinishesarenew.

Interior Doors • Modern doors with applied paneling.

Interior Woodwork • Most woodwork facing the atrium as well as that which was originally on the exterior walls and is

easily visible within former classroom areas appears to be original.


Exit Stairs • Yes.


Fire Ratings at Open Floors • Yes.



Elevators• Yes.

Entry Steps• Accessible entries.




• This building is in excellent condition, since it was restored both inside and out in 2003. A few minor issues are as follows;

Grout the top of exterior stone stairs Replace missing trim around fascia

Reconnect downspout Prime and paint fascia and trim as needed


For close to two years, the Pittsburgh History & Landmarks Foundation worked diligentlyinthefourcollegesselectedtoreceivethebenefitsofTheGettyFund’s“Campus Heritage Grants.”

Allegheny College, Geneva College, Grove City College, and Slippery Rock University collaborated with the Pittsburgh History & Landmarks Foundation in the development of this work that can be used as a road map for conservation of campus heritage, historic structures, and landscape. This work will become part of the school’s recorded history; how from the mid-19th century to the mid-20th century architects and landscape designers envisioned the ideal physical environment to educate and to promote the enduring values that persist to this day.

The Pittsburgh History & Landmarks Foundation is honored to be a recipient of The GettyFoundation’s“CampusHeritageGrants”andtohaveworkedwiththesefineschools in implementing the Getty’s mandate, and stands ready to continue working with the educational institutions should they require our services.

piTTsburGh hisTory & landmarks FoundaTion

Pittsburgh History & Landmarks Foundation100 West Station Square Drive, STE 450Pittsburgh, PA 15219 • 412-471-5808 • www.phlf.orgP

preservation lan - pittsburgh history & landmarks foundation

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