Villanova University - Belle Air Yearbook (Villanova, PA)

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Villanova and Time A VIVID first impression, a lingering last look—whether we be entering or leaving —Villanova presents a fascinating paradox of ever-changing, yet permanent beauty, blended in its striking panorama of graceful architecture, distinctive atmosphere of campus life, and grandeur of seemingly boundless, flowing lawns and gar- dens. A glowing picture which arrests the eye and stirs the feeling to an appreciative enthusiasm. We sense the weight of tradition that surrounds the halls—the calm seren- ity of the old and sparkling vitality of the new. As we note the contrast an urge is prompted within us—a curious desire to learn of the past that must truly have lived, to have left Villanova the rich heritage which it is now so proud to possess. Traditionally known as the Belle Air, this volume commemorates the historical day when the title of the famous Belle Air estate passed into the hands of the Augustinian Fathers, and became known as Villanova College. For thirty-eight years after the turn of the eighteenth century, these lands formed the estate of John Rudolph, a Philadelphia merchant. Named after the ancestral home of his father, Belle Air in Maryland, the estate became famed as one of the finest in east- ern Pennsylvania. Shortly after the death of Mr. Randolph in 1838, Belle Air was offered at public sale. The Augustinian Order was at that time seeking a suitable site in the vicinity of Philadelphia for the establishment of a mother house, and consequently was quick to grasp the splendid opportunity of acquiring the desirable property. Negotiations were begun, and the tract of Belle Air was purchased on the day previous to that announced for the public sale, the title being granted to the Brothers of the Order of Hermits of St. Augustine for the sum of $18,000. On the memorable feast of St. Augustine, August 28, 1843, Father O’Dwyer, O.S.A., cele- brated Holy Mass in the oratory of the mansion, dedicating the new monastery, and formally placing it under the patronage of St. Thomas of Villanova, be- loved for his saintly character and kindliness toward the poor. With such an inspiring begin- ning. Villanova took up the work of the higher education of Catholic youth. On September 18. 1843, classes opened with an attend- ance of six students, which THE ORIGINAL BUILDINGS TKirtoon