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Campus History

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The Sunken Garden is the original site of "Old Baldwin Hall" which burned in 1924. Legend has it that the first person you see, or perhaps kiss, in the garden will be the one you marry. Many weddings take place in this garden with its sheltered seating areas, sundial, and beautiful blooms.

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The Quadrangle (Quad) used to be a lake, known as Normal Pond. The pond was drained in 1924 to put out the fire that destroyed old Baldwin Hall. Students enjoy the open grassy area at the center of campus and fill the space by studying, playing frisbee, or just hanging out.

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The Joseph Baldwin statue is located on the south side of the Quad and is a statue of the University's first president. It was dedicated in 1927 in celebration of his 100th birthday.

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When trees were first planted on the Quad there was one of every tree native to Missouri. Although there are some species that are no longer a part of the landscape, the Quad includes the "Gum Tree"- a traditional spot to leave their chewed gum.

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The Bell Wall was built and dedicated in 1967 at the University's Centennial Celebration. The bells were purchased from the sites of various abandoned churches, schools, and public buildings in the area and represent Liberty, Justice, Religion, and Education.

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Red Barn Park is located on the south side of campus and was originally the University farm. It is often the venue for "Drive-In" movies sponsored by the Student Activities Board, BBQ's, and tailgate events because it is adjacent to Stokes Stadium.

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The "Gates of the University", located on the north side of campus, serve as the official entrance to Truman. They are marked with a quote from Harvard's longest serving president, Charles W. Eliot (1834-1926), who was an innovator in higher education. The quote states, "Enter to grow in wisdom. Depart, better to serve your country and thy kind."

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The official entrance to campus acknowledges school history by listing all previous names of the University. Starting in 1867 as North Missouri Normal School & Commercial College and ending with Truman State Univeristy, the official name since 1996.

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The weathervane on top of Kirk Memorial building was made to permanently point Northeast in reference to the University's history after the University's name was changed from Northeast Missouri State University to Truman State University.

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To increase school spirit in 1915, the Bulldog was adopted as the official mascot to represent athletic teams.

Joseph Baldwin opened the North Missouri Normal School and Commercial College on September 2, 1867. Since then Truman State University has become a national recognized, highly selective, public liberal arts and sciences university. We are proud of our traditions and invite you to learn more about them in this part of the virtual tour!