I am interested in the history of Swartz Hall (Previously Andover Hall) and want to know more about its windows and its interior & exterior decorations.

Andover Theological Seminary's Andover Hall was built in 1910-11 and opened for the 1911-12 academic year.  The architects were Allen and Collens, who would later design the Cloisters and Riverside Church in New York City. When Harvard purchased Andover Hall in 1935, it became the only Collegiate Gothic style building at Harvard. Charles W. Eliot, Harvard's president from 1869 to 1909, did not think the style was appropriate for Harvard, so no Harvard buildings were built in this style. Andover Hall was renamed Swartz Hall in 2019.

"The New Buildings of Andover Seminary" in Harvard Graduates' Magazine, v. 20 (1911-12): 284-286, describes the architecture and decorative features. Harvard Graduate's Magazine is available through Google Book. Search for the article or type 284 in the page number box in the top center of the page and hit enter. The article starts near the bottom of that page.

For illustrations and additional background, see Building Andover Hall in a former library exhibit -- Harvard Divinity at the Turn of the 20th Century.

More Help Options

Email Your Question

Use our simple form to email a librarian your question. We usually respond to questions within 24 hours (M-F).

 

Schedule a Research Appointment

Talk to a librarian for advice on defining your topic, developing your research strategy, and locating and using sources.

Schedule an Appointment