Beardshear Hall

Beardshear Hall is the main administration building at Iowa State University in Ames, designed in Neoclassical and Beaux Arts styles. The four-story structure features walls of buff Bedford stone and houses the offices of the President, Vice-President, Treasurer, and other key university administrators.

The building was designed by architects Proudfoot & Bird as a fireproof structure after the 1902 fire that destroyed Old Main. It opened in 1906 and became the new administrative center for the university.

The building was renamed in 1938 to honor William Beardshear, who led the university as president from 1891 to 1902. This name change from its original Central Building reflects how the institution recognized his contributions to its development.

The building is located on Morrill Road and is accessible to visitors during weekdays. Since this is an active administration building, plan your visit during normal business hours.

The interior features columns made of scagliola, a material that mimics marble so accurately that even professional architects struggle to tell the difference. This crafted technique gives the building an elegant look while avoiding the expense of genuine marble.