University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Walking Tour

The University of Illinois Arboretum has undergone significant transformations since its inception. Originally part of the 1867 campus master plan located north of Green Street, it was later moved to south campus near the Observatory and Smith Music Hall during the 1900s[1]. In the late 1980s to early 1990s, the Arboretum was relocated again to its current site at the intersection of South Lincoln and Florida Avenues[1].

This relocation was part of broader campus development efforts. As the College of Engineering expanded, the need for a new site arose. The current location allows for a 160-acre "living laboratory" where students and researchers can study plant sciences and fine arts[2]. The Arboretum features several gardens, including the Miles C. Hartley Garden, which showcases over 1,200 plant species and serves as a trial ground for companies worldwide[2].

The Arboretum's design and management have been shaped by a master plan developed by Boston-based landscape architecture firm Sasaki Associates in the early 1990s[2]. This plan has been updated over time to reflect changing needs and opinions. The site's transformation into a vibrant public space has been supported by donations and endowments, enabling it to host various events and serve educational purposes[2].

Illini Grove, located in Urbana, Illinois, is a park and natural grove area that has undergone significant changes over the years. Originally part of the Forestry Department's land, it was situated near the intersection of Pennsylvania and Nevada avenues, running along Lincoln Avenue[1].

In the early 1960s, the area began to be developed as "Illini Meadows," with the construction of recreational facilities[1]. However, by the mid-1980s, the name had reverted back to Illini Grove, while Illini Meadows referred to a different area west of the Veterinary Medicine Complex[1].

The development of Illini Grove included the construction of a shelter house, which first appeared on maps in the early 1960s[1]. This transformation reflects the evolving use of the area from a forestry focus to a recreational space.

The Forestry Department's historical presence in the area played a crucial role in shaping the landscape and use of Illini Grove[1]. Today, it remains a notable part of Urbana's recreational spaces.

The McFarland Memorial Bell Tower, located on the University of Illinois campus in Urbana, Illinois, is a significant landmark that began construction in July 2008. The tower was dedicated on October 22, 2010, marking a pivotal moment in the campus's history[1].

The decision to build the tower was likely influenced by the desire to enhance the campus's aesthetic and cultural offerings. The tower features an electric-automatic carillon of 48 bells, crafted by the renowned bell makers Petit & Fritsen[2]. This design choice reflects a commitment to quality and tradition in bell-making.

During its construction, the project faced various challenges, including logistical and technical issues. However, these were overcome through careful planning and execution, resulting in a structure that stands as a testament to the university's commitment to cultural enrichment.

The tower's dedication ceremony was a significant event, drawing attention from both the university community and the broader public. It highlighted the importance of cultural and musical expressions on campus.

Today, the McFarland Memorial Bell Tower remains a notable feature of the University of Illinois, though it is rarely played[3]. Its presence continues to contribute to the campus's vibrant cultural landscape.

The State Farm Center, originally known as Assembly Hall, is a significant architectural achievement located in Champaign, Illinois. It was completed in 1963 and was the first-ever concrete dome arena, featuring a 400-foot-diameter dome that weighs 10 million pounds[1]. This engineering marvel was designed by Max Abramovitz, a University of Illinois alumnus, and constructed by Felmley-Dickerson Co[2].

The construction of the Assembly Hall was a response to the growing need for a large indoor space at the University of Illinois. The university's population had outgrown its largest building, the Auditorium, and required a venue that could accommodate the entire student body[1]. The unique design of the dome was supported by 614 miles of steel wire, making it an engineering feat of its time[2].

The arena was dedicated on Honors Day, May 3, 1963, and served as a pivotal venue for basketball games and other events. Its design and construction attracted widespread attention, and it remained the largest dome structure in North America until the opening of the Astrodome in 1965[3]. Today, the State Farm Center continues to host various events, including basketball games for the Illinois Fighting Illini teams[2].

Memorial Stadium at the University of Illinois is a significant historical landmark located in Champaign, Illinois. It was built to honor the 183 University of Illinois students who lost their lives in World War I. The idea for the stadium was introduced by Head Football Coach Robert Zuppke and Athletic Director George Huff in 1921, with a goal to build a 75,000-seat stadium[1][2].

The first game at Memorial Stadium took place on November 3, 1923, in a partially completed state, where Illinois defeated the University of Chicago 7-0[1][3]. However, the stadium was not officially dedicated until October 18, 1924, after the installation of 200 memorial columns, each bearing the name of a fallen student[1][2]. On this day, Illinois defeated Michigan 39-14, with Harold "Red" Grange scoring five touchdowns, marking a pivotal moment in college football history[3].

The construction of Memorial Stadium was made possible by a massive fundraising effort, with over 21,000 people contributing to the building fund[1]. The stadium's completion and dedication marked the beginning of a golden era for Illinois football, with the team winning several championships in the following years[3].

The Activities and Recreation Center (ARC) at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign underwent a significant transformation in the early 2000s. Originally constructed in 1971 as the Intramural Physical Education building (IMPE), it was one of the largest recreation centers in the nation[1]. In 2006, a student-led campaign called "Bigger, Better, Campus Rec Renovation" aimed to address overcrowding and improve facilities. This campaign resulted in a referendum where 74% of voters supported a fee increase to fund the renovation.

The renovation began on March 17, 2006, and was completed in August 2008 at a cost of $221 million. The new design featured a central "Winter Garden," which became the organizational spine of the facility, offering dynamic views and a sun-filled atrium[1]. This transformation not only enhanced the user experience but also provided a modern space for various activities and events.

The ARC now serves as a hub for student life, hosting group fitness classes, community events, and even career fairs. Its popularity is evident in the high usage rates among students and faculty, with 89% of students using Campus Recreation facilities during the 2014-2015 academic year. The renovation marked a pivotal moment in the ARC's history, turning it into a contemporary and vibrant space that meets the diverse needs of the university community.

The Krannert Art Museum, located at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, is a premier fine arts institution in Champaign, Illinois. One pivotal moment in its history was the addition of the Kinkead Pavilion in 1988. Designed by Larry Booth and Associates, this expansion featured a post-modernist design with elements of contemporary Egyptian art, significantly enhancing the museum's exhibition space[1].

The decision to add the Kinkead Pavilion was driven by the need for more space to accommodate the growing collection and to host larger exhibitions. This expansion allowed the museum to increase its annual visitor count and support more extensive scholarly activities through the Fred and Donna Giertz Education Center[2].

The addition of the Kinkead Pavilion not only expanded the physical space but also provided an opportunity to incorporate diverse architectural styles, reflecting the museum's commitment to showcasing a wide range of artistic expressions. Today, the museum continues to host numerous exhibitions each year, featuring works from national and international collections, as well as pieces by contemporary artists and students[3].

The Main Library at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is a testament to ambitious planning and growth. In 1912, University President Edmund James delivered a pivotal speech to the Board of Trustees, outlining his vision for the library to rival those of major German academic institutions. He proposed acquiring at least a million books and constructing a new building to house them[1][2].

This vision led to the construction of the current Main Library building, designed in the Georgian Revival style by Charles A. Platt and completed in 1924. The building was strategically placed to allow for future expansion alongside the university's growing collections[2]. The library moved into this new facility in 1926 and was officially dedicated in 1929[2].

The library's collection grew rapidly, reaching its one-millionth volume in 1935, fulfilling President James' ambitious goal[1][2]. This period of intense acquisition laid the foundation for the library's strong collections in subjects like history, classics, and mathematics[1]. Today, the library continues to expand, housing over 14 million volumes and serving as a hub for academic research and innovation[2].

Foellinger Auditorium, located on the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign campus, is a historic concert hall and lecture hall. When it was first dedicated in 1907, the auditorium faced significant acoustic challenges, including a "fearful echo" that distracted patrons during performances[1]. This issue led University physics professors, notably Floyd Rowe Watson, to study and address the problem. Watson spent six years working on the acoustics, eventually becoming a recognized authority in the field[1].

The initial design by Clarence H. Blackall was compromised due to budget constraints, which contributed to the acoustic issues. Despite these challenges, the auditorium remained a central venue for performances and lectures[2]. In 1937, renovations included lowering the interior dome ceiling to reduce resonance, but the problem persisted[2][1].

The acoustic challenges were finally significantly alleviated during the major renovation in 1983-1985, which included installing a new copper dome and improving stage lighting and audio systems[2][1]. This renovation not only addressed the sound issues but also fulfilled Blackall's original design aspirations, thanks to a generous gift from Helene Foellinger[2][1].

The Krannert Center for the Performing Arts, located on the campus of the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, is a premier educational and performing arts complex. It was established through a significant contribution by Herman and Ellnora Krannert in 1962, with the belief that experiencing the arts is enriching and necessary[1][2].

The construction of the Krannert Center began in August 1966, after a nearly two-year process to acquire the necessary land. The project was led by architect Max Abramovitz, with Jo Mielziner as theatre consultant and Cyril Harris as acoustician[1]. The center officially opened in April 1969, receiving high praise for its innovative design and facilities[1].

One of the most notable design features is the Foellinger Great Hall, known for its exceptional acoustics. Designed by Cyril Harris, the hall's interior is almost perfectly symmetrical, with no parallel surfaces to ensure sound reflects back to the audience, eliminating the need for amplification during instrumental performances[2]. This design choice reflects the Krannerts' vision for a venue that would host world-class performances, which has been fulfilled with appearances by renowned orchestras like the Chicago Symphony Orchestra[2].

The Krannert Center's opening marked a pivotal moment in the cultural landscape of Urbana-Champaign, establishing it as a hub for artistic expression and community engagement. Over the years, it has hosted numerous significant performances and events, solidifying its reputation as a leading performing arts center[3].

The Illini Union, located in Urbana, Illinois, is a central gathering place for students, faculty, and staff at the University of Illinois. On February 8, 1941, it officially opened its doors, marking a pivotal moment in the university's history[1]. The need for a dedicated student center had been recognized for decades, with the Class of 1909 initiating fundraising efforts[2]. However, construction was delayed by the Great Depression. President Arthur C. Willard publicly supported the project, and in 1939, construction began with federal funding[1][2]. The building featured a bowling alley, ballroom, and lounges, reflecting the evolving needs of the student community[1]. Today, the Illini Union remains a vibrant hub, offering spaces for socialization, study, and events[1].

Altgeld Hall, located on the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign campus, is a notable example of architectural design conflict and resolution. Initially planned during Governor John Peter Altgeld's term, the building was intended to reflect his preference for a Tudor-Gothic style, but it ultimately adopted a Richardsonian Romanesque design due to disagreements with architect Daniel Burnham[1]. Burnham, fresh from his success at the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition, was initially commissioned but withdrew due to artistic differences with Altgeld[1].

The building, designed by Nathan Ricker and James White, was completed in 1897 and originally served as the University Library[1]. In 1927, it was repurposed as the Law Building, reflecting the evolving needs of the university[1]. The structure has undergone significant renovations, including major additions in the early 20th century and a restoration in the 1970s that earned it a place on the National Register of Historic Places[2].

Today, Altgeld Hall houses the Mathematics Department and features a bell tower with the University Chime, installed in 1920[2]. This chime marks time and plays daily concerts, becoming an integral part of campus life. The building's history showcases both the challenges of preserving historical architecture and the importance of adapting to changing educational demands.

The Altgeld Chimes, located in Altgeld Hall Tower on the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign campus, were dedicated on October 30, 1920. This event marked a significant moment in the university's history, as the chimes were a gift from the graduating classes of 1914 through 1921 and the United States School of Military Aeronautics[1][2].

The dedication ceremony was attended by hundreds of students, faculty, alumni, and locals. Victor Cullin '20 formally presented the chime to the university, while Trustee Robert Ward '03 gave an acceptance speech on behalf of the Board of Trustees. President Kinley formally dedicated the instrument, and a McShane employee rang the chime for the first time, playing several songs including "Illinois Loyalty"[1].

The chimes were purchased for around $14,000 from the McShane Bell Company and were installed in time for the university's tenth homecoming celebration. The installation required additional funds to ensure the chimes could play the melody of "Illinois Loyalty," which necessitated two extra bells[1].

Today, the Altgeld Chimes continue to mark the hours and are used for concerts, maintaining their role as a beloved part of university tradition[2].

The Alma Mater statue, a beloved symbol of the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, underwent significant restoration in 2012. The statue, created by Lorado Taft, had developed surface corrosion, cracks, and water penetration into the sculpture over time[1][2]. The restoration aimed to return the statue to its original bronze color, rather than maintaining the natural green patina that had formed[1].

The decision to restore the statue was made to preserve its integrity and maintain its iconic status on campus. The restoration process was extensive, involving repairs to the bronze figures and the granite base. After being removed from its site, the statue was returned to its location in April 2014[1][2].

This restoration not only preserved the physical structure of the statue but also ensured its continued role as a central figure in university traditions. The Alma Mater remains a popular backdrop for graduation photos and a symbol of the university's values of "Learning and Labor"[1][2]. The restoration highlights the community's commitment to preserving historical landmarks and maintaining their cultural significance.

The statue's design, featuring a mother figure flanked by "Learning" and "Labor," reflects the university's motto and has become an integral part of campus life[1]. The restoration ensured that this iconic piece of art continues to welcome students and alumni alike, embodying the university's spirit of community and academic excellence.