Nothing shows the growth of a campus quite like the building of new structures. Residence halls, classroom buildings, auditoriums, libraries, and gymnasiums have been added to our campus at an impressive speed ever since the University acquired the land back in 1956.

And nothing celebrates the momentous occasion of creating a new building quite like a groundbreaking. The first shovelful of dirt removed from the ground where a building will stand is a traditional way of bringing people together around a new and exciting venture. New buildings signify so much – a growing student body, new programs, academic progress. And the ceremony of breaking the ground is the first step of a new chapter.

Below are groundbreaking photographs from two buildings on campus – Herman Hall, and Blake Law Center. Check them out, and if you’re interested in learning more about the buildings you visit every day, be sure to check out the Archives’ latest online exhibition – Know Your Campus: The Western New England University Campus Throughout the Years – about the history of your campus!

Groundbreaking of Herman Hall, 1963. The building opened to students in 1964.

Groundbreaking of Blake Law Center, 1978. The Building opened to students in the spring of 1979.

Groundbreaking of Blake Law Center, 1978. The Building opened to students in the spring of 1979.