Parsons Hall has seen a lot in its 51 years.
But that all came to an end when the former upperclassmen residence hall on the Marietta College campus at the corner of Seventh and Butler streets started coming down on Monday.
"It's bittersweet," said Ellen Campbell, assistant dean of students and the resident director of the hall for the past three years. "I have a lot of great memories of Parsons but I'm really looking forward to moving to Harrison."
Article Photos
SAM SHAWVER The Marietta Times
Workers with Russ James Contracting of Zanesville begin the demolition of Parsons Hall Monday on the Marietta College campus.
Parsons Hall, built in 1961 and named for the college's eighth president Edward Parsons, will be completely razed in the next couple days by Russ James Contracting out of Zanesville to make way for a parking area, according to Tom Perry, director of college relations.
"We can always use more parking on campus," he said. "This will allow us to add 175 to 180 spots."
The additional parking spaces will be available after hours and when school is not in session for events on campus.
Fact Box
Parsons Hall
Opened in 1961.
Located at Seventh and Butler streets.
Named for eighth Marietta College President Edward S. Parsons.
Co-ed residence hall for 213 upperclassmen students.
Being replaced by Harrison Hall at Seventh and Putnam streets and a parking lot.
Harrison Hall, a brand new upperclassmen residence hall, is being constructed at Seventh and Putnam streets to replace Parsons.
"I'm kinda sad to see it go," said Chelsea Clyde, from Oil City, Pa., who will be a senior next year and has spent the last two years at Parsons. "It was more than just a living facility. My home is four hours away and I lived with the same group of friends."
Clyde and Campbell both said they are looking forward to the newer amenities of Harrison Hall, including air conditioning, better security and kitchen and laundry facilities on each floor.
Eric Dowler lived in Parsons Hall his sophomore year at Marietta College in 2004-2005. The current Marietta High School rowing coach said he has good memories of Parsons as well, though some might not be suitable for print.
"It was one of the most fun years I had there," he said. "We are sad to see it go but we definitely know there is a need to move on."
The dorm was built in a "motel"-style with 8-person suites and balconies. A recent article in Marietta College's Marietta magazine had alumni remembering water fights from the balcony.
"It was great, with Parsons Field down below and just the openness," said Clyde. "We're going to miss a lot of that."
Harrison Hall, named for the first black graduate of the college, Charles Sumner Harrison, and two of his brothers, is being built at a cost of $24 million. The dormitory is expected to open in August.
"We are moving along fine on Harrison Hall and the plan is to be ready to go in the fall," Perry said.
