Villanova University - Belle Air Yearbook (Villanova, PA)

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REV. JOSEPH E. HYSON. A. M.. O. S. A Faculty Advisor

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REV. JOHN A. SPARROW. Ph. D.. O. S. A Director—Summer and Extension School

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 I. . 'i f. »„ .-?£, i ELLE AIR” is a traditional name which is near and dear to every Villanova alumnus. It is. therefore, only fitting that a historical sketch be given, tracing the development of Villanova from the site of Belle Air of more than a century ago. John Randolph, a Catholic merchant of Philadelphia, purchased one hundred acres from Jonathan Miller, of Haverford Township, upon which he completed a partly erected building and named the site “Belle Air,” in honor, it is said, of his father’s birthplace. He died on March 30. 1840, and on October 13, 1841, Belle Air wac pur- chased for $1800 by Rev. Augustine Kyle and the commissary of the province, Dr. Moriarity. The probable opening date of Villanova is Sept. 18. 1843; thirteen students enrolling. In 1844 the new college building (the east wing of old Tolentine Academy) was completed and occupied. In May, 1844, the corner- stone was laid for the new church which was opened on Sept. 1, 1844. The main hall of this building served as a study hall. On July 21, 1847, was witnessed Villanova’s first public com- mencement, Rev. Jas. O’Donnell presiding. During the same year another building was erected at the northwest corner of the College church. On March 10, 1848. Villanova was granted its charter. On De- cember 30th, of the same year, the first seal of the college was ac- cepted. In 1848 another college building was planned, one wing of wi'ch was completed. The second floor of this building was equipped with a library. In 1852 the Monastery was enlarged by the addition of a stone building. No further improvements were made until 1869, at which time a gymnasium was erected and fully equipped During Father Galbery’s administration a new wing was added to the college building. In 1883 the present College Chapel was erected. elle Bay