Crampton Hall

Crampton's earliest residents included 1881 graduate William Jennings Bryan, a three time presidential candidate. Crampton hall has supplied space for science labs as well as a small gymnasium. Since Illinois College was first for men, it used to be an all male dorm.  The first women were included in the 1940’s. 

Construction on Crampton Hall began in 1873 and was completed in 1874. It was most recently renovated in 2011 by River City Design Group. It is a 3 story building consisting of 10,400 square feet ("Illinois College- Crampton Hall Renovation"). The foundation and walls consists of brick and the roof is asphalt shingles. It offers traditional-style living for 47 students.  Exterior entry stairs have been restored and security and weather vestibules have also been added to each entry.  The historic stairs were rebuilt in conformance with the Americans with Disability Act and were maintained in their historic location.  Crampton Hall was the oldest building in continuous use as a college residence hall in the state of Illinois ("Crampton Hall").  It is no longer being used for permanent residence as of the 2017-2018 school year. 

IC Ghost Stories

Crampton Hall has seen many students pass through its rooms within its 144 years of existence. Some of these students have reported strange events that occurred while they were living in the building. One account claims a man was found after a party who appeared to have hanged himself, but the way in which he was hanged hinted that he could not have done it on his own. However, there is no official documentation of such an event. In another story, a student awoke one night to find a man staring in his direction. Moments later, the man disappeared after walking through the student’s closet (Taylor and Horton).