Heritage Hall (Valparaiso University)

Heritage Hall is the oldest building on the campus of Valparaiso University in the U.S. state of Indiana. Erected in 1875, the building had prominent dormers and French Mansard roof. Originally named Flint Hall after the contractor that built it, but was renamed after Richard Aaron Heritage, head of the music department from 1878-1894. Within the decade the top floor was destroyed in a fire, after which Heritage bought the building, put a roof on the remaining two stories, and renamed it after himself.

At different times throughout its history, Heritage Hall underwent numerous renovations and was used as a dormitory, barracks during World War I, a machinery classroom, and finally a library when Valparaiso University was bought by the Lutheran University Association in 1925. In 1959, the new Moellering Library had been completed and the building was converted to classrooms and offices. Heritage Hall was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1976.

Today Heritage Hall is part of the Valparaiso University School of Law and houses the Valparaiso University Law Clinic, which provides free legal services to qualifying members of the community. The Dean of Valparaiso University School of Law, Jay Conison, has announced, however, that the addition attached to Heritage Hall, formerly the University Mail Center, is to be demolished during the summer of 2009. A new addition to Heritage Hall, known as the Lawyering Skills Center, will be built in its place. The University's Law Clinic will operate from this new facility, and the building will host other activities focused upon practical skill-building for law students. The construction of this new building was made possible by a generous $4 Million donation.

References

• Burns, Bob. "Valparaiso University traces Heritage back to 19th century blaze." Post-Tribune 30 May 2006: B2.