Historical State, 125, NC State University, one hundred twenty-five years of shaping the future

2004-01-24

Harrelson Hall (Raleigh, N.C.)
Harrelson Hall, the first cylindrical building to ever be built on a university campus, was built in 1961. It is named after John William Harrelson (1885-1955), who was the first North Carolina State University alumnus to serve as chief executive of the University. He graduated in 1909 with a degree in mechanical engineering and was valedictorian of his class. In addition to serving as chief executive, he also taught in the mathematics department and as college archivist.
J. W. (John William) Harrelson (1885-1955): Harrelson graduated from N.C. State College in 1905 with a Bachelor of Engineering degree, staying on as an Instructor in Mathematics. In 1934 Harrelson became Head of the Mathematics Department. He served as an Officer in the Army Reserves and saw active duty in both World Wars. Between wars, he served as Director of the Department of Conservation, North Carolina from 1929-1933. Harrelson was Chancellor of N.C. State College from 1934-1953. During his 19 year administration Harrelson led State College through its two largest building programs, including 7 dorms, 11 new and 4 renovated teaching-research-extension buildings, a new library, Reynolds Coliseum, a College Union, and a nuclear reactor for civilian training. The NCSC student population was 1,800 in 1934 when he became Chancellor, and grew to 4,000 students when he retired in 1953. Harrelson Hall, the round classroom/office building facing the Brickyard at NC State, was named in his honor.

Funkhouser, Edward T. (Edward Truman), 1946- (Photographer)

Digital photographs

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