The building that is now known as Massey Hall at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UTK), was constructed and opened in Fall 1960.
While the structure itself began welcoming residents in 1960, it was not officially named Massey Hall until several years later.
A Brief History of Massey Hall
Originally, the building was known by a different name and served as a key residence for students. Its evolution to becoming Massey Hall involved a period of initial operation under a different designation before its official renaming.
- Opening and Initial Use: The dorm officially opened its doors in Fall 1960. At the time, it was recognized by two names: West Hall—Unit A or New West Hall. Its modern facilities and fresh appearance led one parent to famously dub it the "Freshman Conrad Hilton," highlighting its appeal to new residents.
- Renaming to Massey Hall: It wasn't until October 1967 that the University of Tennessee's board of trustees officially named the building Massey Hall. This renaming was a tribute to Felix Massey, who was the university's first dean of students, recognizing his significant contributions to UTK.
Key Dates for Massey Hall
To clarify the timeline of the building's history, here are the pivotal dates:
| Event | Date | Original Name(s) |
|---|---|---|
| Building Constructed and Opened | Fall 1960 | West Hall—Unit A / New West Hall |
| Renamed to Massey Hall | October 1967 | N/A |
Today, Massey Hall continues to serve as an integral part of the UTK campus, with a history rooted in its early days as a modern dormitory and its eventual renaming in honor of a foundational figure in the university's student services. For more detailed information, you can explore the Massey Hall entry on Volopedia.
