Benedictine Hall, Historic university building in Shawnee, Oklahoma.
Benedictine Hall is a university building in Shawnee distinguished by its four-story central tower and Tudor Gothic style, featuring brick facing and reinforced concrete walls. It houses administrative offices, classrooms, science laboratories, and a library as part of Oklahoma Baptist University's Green Campus.
The building was designed in 1915 by architect Victor Klutho and originally served as an educational facility for around 40 male students at St. Gregory's University. Its construction marked the beginning of a Catholic institution that later became Oklahoma Baptist University.
The building reflects how religious education shaped early university spaces in Oklahoma, with its design meant to inspire both learning and spiritual growth. Its architectural choices show the values that Catholic institutions brought to higher education in the region.
The building can be viewed from the outside as part of the Green Campus, with the tower and architectural details visible from multiple angles. Plan time to walk around different sides to observe the craftsmanship of the brickwork and structural elements.
During the 2011 earthquake, one of the building's turrets collapsed, triggering extensive repairs and reconstruction. About 3,400 donors funded the restoration work, showing broad community support for preserving the structure.
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