Caldwell Hall

Caldwell Hall is a university building on the Cornell campus in Ithaca featuring classical architectural elements including symmetrical windows and stone masonry across multiple stories. The structure houses laboratory spaces and classrooms dedicated to scientific instruction and research.

The building was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1984, recognizing its importance in American higher education. This designation acknowledges the role it played in advancing scientific teaching and research practices.

The building is named for Dr. George Chapman Caldwell, whose leadership of the chemistry department from 1868 to 1907 shaped how science was taught across the university. His influence remains visible in the labs and classrooms that continue to serve the same educational mission today.

Campus access permission is needed to visit the building, and you should check Cornell University's website for current operating hours. Plan to register at campus information points before exploring the interior spaces.

The building was one of the earliest places where systematic chemistry education occurred in the United States, well before the subject became common at other universities. This pioneering role makes it an important site in the history of scientific education in America.