A Century on the Oval: The Enduring Legacy of the Social Science Building

"We shape our buildings; thereafter, they shape us” (Churchill, 1943). Campus architecture significantly influences both academic and social communities. This study examines the architectural and institutional history of the Social Science Building at the University of Montana, aiming to uncover its origins, development, and evolving role within campus life. Constructed in 1921, during a time of postwar academic expansion, the building showcases early 20th-century revival architectural styles. These architectural styles draw inspiration from classical Greek and Roman architecture and Gothic and Renaissance styles. Through archival research, campus planning documents, and ethnographic fieldwork, this project traces the building’s initial construction, its usage over time, and the broader social and academic changes it has witnessed and facilitated. Particular focus is placed on the building’s architectural elements and stylistic decisions, as well as how its spatial design has shaped and enriched student experiences. By situating the Social Science Building within the larger narrative of the university’s growth and mission, this project contributes to the preservation of campus history and offers insights into how academic buildings serve as symbols of university life and progress.