Hugh Roy and Lillie Cullen Building

The Hugh Roy and Lillie Cullen Building is a three-story university structure built from pale limestone with rounded arches and textured stonework throughout its facade. A distinctive tower rises from the southwest corner, creating a recognizable landmark on the campus.

Construction was completed in 1900 under architect Robert Stewart Hyer's direction, establishing it as an important example of Romanesque Revival architecture in Texas. The structure gained recognition as a Recorded Texas Historic Landmark in 1962 and entered the National Register of Historic Places in 1975.

The building serves as the heart of Southwestern University's campus life and daily operations. Students and staff interact with it constantly as the central hub for academic and administrative functions.

The building sits in the center of Southwestern University's campus and is easy to locate. Visitors can view the exterior anytime, and modernized elevators provide convenient access to different floors when the building is open to visitors.

Graduating students write their names on the interior walls of the Cullen Tower during commencement celebrations, a practice passed down through generations. This personal gesture connects students to the structure and leaves a lasting record of their time at the university.

Location: Georgetown

Inception: 1900

Architects: Robert Stewart Hyer

Architectural style: Romanesque architecture, Romanesque Revival architecture

Part of: Southwestern University

Address: University Avenue

GPS coordinates: 30.63333,-97.66694

Latest update: December 14, 2025 11:03