Villanova University - Belle Air Yearbook (Villanova, PA)

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In 1901 the present monastery was built; the same year also records the erection of the present main college hall. From this time on the prog- ress of Villanova became even greater and due credit must be given to the faculty and board of directors under whose diligent and intelligent direc- tion the once latent and potential riches of Villanova were realized. They emphasized things which, of necessity, were formerly ignored, they rein- stated things essential and which were once regarded as unnecessary. The present Technology school was opened in 1905, and was followed by the opening of the Pre-Medical school in 1912. In 1912, St. Rita’s Hall was destroyed by fire, but a new building was immediately and undauntingly set up; and in the same year work was begun on Corr Hall, the edifice wherein was begun unselfish work—work indeed of a strenuous character, but a work with a purpose so dignified that it is clothed with that mantle of infinite worth, viz., ultimate happiness. 1920 witnessed the dedication of the Old Tolentine Academy to the Alumni, and in 1921 the Commerce and Financial school was opened. On October 9, 1925, the Very Rev. C. M. Driscoll, O.S.A. Assistant General, presided at the dedication of the New Dormitory, a grand structure which well befits Villanova. It stands coolly oblivious to the haughty question- ings and wounded vanity of our other prominent buildings. The east wing of the new dorm contains a library above and beyond comparison with most college libraries. This voluminous library contains over 50,000 volumes. The history of Villanova has been a history of progress. The wonder- ful advances of the last few years forecast a greater Villanova, a Villanova whose chief object is to give to her students a better and fuller education, an education not only of mind but of will, an education that will produce, as it has always produced at Villanova, ideal Catholic gentlemen. 28

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LIKE most institutions which have attained greatness, Belle Air was, in the beginning, cautious and unyielding in its progress, while hesi- tation, coupled with sagacity, characterized its speculation. But the steadfastness of purpose and the perseverance of the ever-industrious officials, mingled with an initiative guided by wisdom, has, at length, placed Villanova well within the realm of success. In tracing the life of Belle Air one is led, while seeking its origin, to the embryonic site purchased by Rev. Augustine Tyle and Dr. Moriarity on March 30, 1840. This opportune purchase was made from John Randolph, who had given to the site the name of Belle Air in honor of his father’s birthplace. On September 13, 1843, Villanova opened with an enrollment of 13 students, an enrollment actually small but possessed with an inherent capacity for huge developments, a capacity which was soon to unfold itself at an astoundingly increasing pace. In the year 1844, two notable facts are recorded: first, the new college building was completed. Second, the cornerstone was laid for the new church. In 1847 another building was erected at the southwest corner of the church, and the same year witnessed our first public commencement. In 1848, Villanova was fittingly granted its charter and its first seal was accepted. The year 1852 brought with it an ample enlargement on the already copious monastery; and in 1869 and 1883 respectively, our fully-equipped gymnasium and present magnificent chapel were built. The year 1892 marked our fiftieth anniversary, and in the same year the faculty was duly enlarged and a new board of directors chosen. 27

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UNDERGRADUATE COUNCIL Officers JAMES A. TRAINOR, Chairman HERBERT MADDEN. Vice-Chairman JOSEPH L. HUGHES, Secretary MEMBERS Villanovan JAMES P. KANE Departmental THOMAS J. HALLORAN LOUIS P. ZAZZALI Seniors ALBERT BROWN JOHN FURLONG JOSEPH L. HUGHES JOHN B. McANENY Juniors CLETUS SEAVER HERBERT MADDEN JOSEPH GIBBONS Sophomores ALBERT BROWN LESLIE BURNS JOHN Freshmen J. KENNY BROOKS McDonald 29