Ambrose Hall

Ambrose Hall is the oldest building on the St. Ambrose University campus. Built in phases between 1885 and 1912, it is a fine example of Second Empire architecture. It features a mansard roof, clock tower, decorative brick corbelling under the cornice, and arched windows and doorways with stone hood molds and keystones. Today Ambrose Hall houses various administrative offices and classroom. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1977.

St. Ambrose University was established in 1882 as a Catholic seminary school for boys aged 12-13 years old. The first group of 33 students took classes in two classrooms at the school of what is now known as Sacred Heart Cathedral. It did not officially incorporate as a seminary until 1885 but it operated as such from the beginning. The school offered a liberal arts curriculum with classes in the humanities, sciences, theology, and business.

The original part of Ambrose Hall was built from 1885 to 1887. The next portion was built on the east side on 1893 and the third was erected on the west side in 1901. The fourth and final addition was built in 1908. However, it was built in the Colonial Revival style. As a result, in 1912 the front facade of this addition was remodeled to match the rest of the building. All of the additions were designed in the Second Empire style but look slightly different.

Dawson, Rev. William F. & McDaniel, Fr. George. "Ambrose Hall." National Park Service - National Register of Historic Places Nomination Form. April 11, 1977. https://npgallery.nps.gov/NRHP/GetAsset/NRHP/77000553_text.

"History of SAU." St. Ambrose University. Accessed February 24, 2022. https://www.sau.edu/about-sau/history-of-sau.