Constructed as part of a PWA project to add buildings to the campus, the hall was designed to contain a library, art department, classrooms, and offices. The Art Deco two-story, matte-faced cream-colored brick building with its red brick base, bands of alternating red and cream brick set between the first and second stories, and similar bands along the cornice brought a daring modern touch to the campus. The building is curved at one corner to add a streamlined effect. Windows are large and horizontal in shape, and the entrance is tucked into the body of the building. In 1968, the library moved to a new building, which appropriated the John Brown Watson Library name. This building was named Childress Hall and was used for offices. A major renovation took place in 2003 (Nelson Architectural Group), which added the university museum, a conference room, and offices.
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Childress Hall (John Brown Watson Memorial Library)
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