Hilltopper Heritage

Building History - Newman Center

Namesake - Newman Centers are named for Cardinal John Newman (1801-1890) who converted to Catholicism in 1845. As a student of religious history he became an advocate of bringing the Church of England back into the fold. A movement which he wrote several books about.

History - In 1967, the center filed a request for a building permit for construction of a new building. This building was to be located at the intersection of 14th and College Streets. This is where the organization occupied the Max Nahm house before it was razed ca. 1962. ["Newman Center Files For $275,000 Permit," July 16, 1967]

The two story brick building was composed of 15,000 square feet. The angular design had a 450-seat chapel. The building was air-conditioned and the chapel was carpeted. On the second floor, were faculty and student meeting rooms. On the lower level were a coffee house and the “Catacombs.” ["Work to Begin Next Week in Newman Club," July 19, 1967] The Catacombs was a group of amateur artists who performed in public.

Additions -

Researched and written by Jenna Hawkins, 2008.