THOMPSON HALL
From Knob Knowledge
Construction began in 1938 and was completed in 1939. The building was torn down in 1999. It was located at the north end of the Parade Ground. It was named for Hugh Smith Thompson, Class of 1856, who was elected governor of South Carolina twice, in 1882 and 1884. The building served many functions over the years. Originally called the Administration Building, it housed the post office, canteen, cadet lounge, barber shop, publications rooms, billeting for visiting athletic teams, several administrative offices and an auditorium seating approximately 600 persons that was used for meetings, stage performances such as the I. B. Early Show (a variety show) and tea dances. Most of these functions later moved to Mark Clark Hall. For about ten years, from 1947-1957, it was called the Activities Building (or the Administration Building). Around 1958, it was renamed the Physical Education Building, housing the Physical Education Department offices and classrooms, as well as engineering drawing rooms, surveying classrooms, athletic equipment, shower rooms, and apartments. Also in 1958, a soundproof band room was installed, with modern recording equipment. In 1963, it was renamed Thompson Hall. From 1977 to 1984, it housed the Department of Psychology, in addition to other functions. During the 1980s, it temporarily housed the Civil Engineering Department and the Athletic Department, as well as the Band and Bagpipe rehearsal rooms, cheerleading practice room and the air gun rifle range. In the 1990s, Thompson Hall housed The Citadel Counseling Center, Special Services, Multicultural Student Services and visiting teams' rooms. The Guidon 2000-01 stated that the site "is currently under renovation." (Sources: The Guidon, 1939-1940 to 2000-2001; A History of The Citadel: The Years of Summerall and Clark. U430 .C5N53 1994, pp. 242-243, 335) (DH)
See also Thompson Hall.
