Creighton University - Bluejay Yearbook (Omaha, NE)

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In 1878, Creighton College consisted of one isolated structure, above, re- ferred to as the Main Building. Today, this building, known as the Administration Building continues to embody the University ' s past inspira- tions, present achievements, and future goals. Pictured left, are five young men who graduated from Creighton ' s first class in Uie year 1891. intro — 7

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named chief beneficiary and executor in Mary Lucretia ' s will. In hier will, slie remembered her husband ' s dream and left $100,000 in trust for a college which was to bear his name. John Creighton poured his augmented fortune into charitable works. Besides giving more than two million dollars to the university, he gave the city a hospital, a convent for the Poor Clare Nuns, a home for working girls and numerous other charitable institutions. His partner and inspiration in all these philanthropies was his wife, whose con- cern for the welfare of the university and close cooperation with her husband earned her the title of co-founder of the school. Sarah Emily Creighton died in 1888, but the memory of her charity only inspired her husband to greater giving. On February 7, 1907, John died, and for many years that date was observed by Creighton University as Founder ' s Day. Now it is observed on the first Thursday in December. Creighton University opened its doors in 1878 with 120 boys taught without charge by a faculty of one Jesuit priest, three scholastics, a layman and a woman. In 1878, Creighton College had only one building, which in later years was re- ferred to as the Main Building. The main building presented a very isolated picture. It was erected on the brow of a Graduates of 1900 and 1928 face a brave new world. 6 — intra

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hill which sloped away to the east and north, thereby commanding an extensive view in these two directions. Moreover, the building faced what was then re- ferred to as one of the most important thoroughfares of the city, that is, 24th Street. The grounds of the college then con- sisted of a rectangle measuring 526 feet from north to south and 561 feet from east to west. A large house was located in the northeastern end of this property. In 1886, the college was able to purchase the building and lot, and refurbish the house as a temporary dwelling for the increased faculty members. When the south wing of the college was completed in 1889, this building was sold and removed. In 1884, John A. Creighton donated about $10,000 toward the purchase of scientific equipment, principally in physics, chemistry and astronomy. To make room for it, a one-story frame build- ing was erected southwest of the college, at the spot where the church is now located. After John A. Crelghton ' s Initial contrllyutlon for science equipment, Creighton continued to Improve Its facilities, as shown by the lab at right. Above, Instructors demonstrate a more practical side of science In a Red Cross first aid class. 8 — intra