Principia College Historic District

Principia College Historic District is an educational complex built on limestone bluffs overlooking the Mississippi River in southern Illinois. The campus spans hundreds of acres with Colonial Revival-style buildings that house classrooms, dormitories, and community facilities for an international student body.

The buildings were constructed between 1931 and 1940 as late significant works by architect Bernard Maybeck. This period marked an important moment in American architectural history and continued Maybeck's influential design approach.

The place reflects Christian Science principles through its architecture and campus layout, visible in how buildings are arranged and designed. Students from around the world study here in an environment shaped by these spiritual values.

Visitors can drive through the campus during daylight hours on weekdays, with Sunday mornings best avoided. Contact the college directly to arrange guided tours or confirm access details before your visit.

An experimental building on the grounds served as a testing ground for construction materials and design ideas before they were used in main campus buildings. This hands-on approach shows how architects tested innovations in real conditions.

Location: Elsah

GPS coordinates: 38.94889,-90.34750

Latest update: December 14, 2025 16:47