When the new campus was built in 1925, Meredith College naturally required an important entrance to greet those entering the grounds from Hillsborough Street. For an institution that was still relatively young, the grand stairway of the Administration Building (as Johnson Hall was then called) created an impression of stability and gravitas. The steps were often used as a backdrop for important occasions and the site for photographs.
For a college, it was fitting that those steps led directly to the library on the second floor. But this arrangement was likely confusing to those who entered seeking the administrative offices and could be disruptive to those studying when students crossed to the parlors or post office. In 1956, the steps were removed, allowing a more natural entrance into what became the first level lobby.
In 2016-17, Johnson Hall and the plaza underwent substantial renovations. The flight of steps, which had been largely forgotten somewhere on campus, were incorporated as part of the new water fountain to complement the updated building. Once again, the steps are a backdrop for photos. The fountain has become a place to toss pennies and make wishes for the future. And If one finds the right distance and angle, the steps can appear to once again be part of Johnson Hall, linking the past and present.
The staircase originally fronting Johnson Hall led directly into the library, sometimes creating some confusion to visitors and disruption for students trying to study.
1927's Miss Meredith, Sara Oliver, poses in front of the steps with a jazz age vehicle.
A photo of a couple hundred students gathered on the Johnson Hall steps. While undated, one woman (far right, leaning on the wall) is wearing what may be a junior class sweater with a "29" patch.
For more than 20 years, Johnson Hall, with its massive staircase, dominated the entrance to the college (1943.)
Singing on the steps of Johnson Hall (1943.)
From the Johnson Hall steps, observers and judges could watch Palio events, including the parade and the "horse" races. When it was done, all posed for a mass photograph.
Equestrians and their horses pose in front of Johnson Hall. The building and its impressive steps were a frequent backdrop to photographs.
A marketing photo of a potential student gazing at Meredith College women was featured on the cover of a 1949 brochure aimed at soon-to-be high school graduates.
Class numbers formed on the steps for Class Day, 1937 and 1951.
In 1963, the Twig photographed students examining the removed steps.
Prior to the current "step fountain," Johnson Hall was graced with a more traditional water feature. The installed lights could change colors (1973.)
The new "step" fountain in 2019.
When the angle of a photo is just right, like here, the steps appear to be reconnected to the building.
The new fountain from the rear.
As were the original steps, the fountain has become a favorite campus spot for memorable photographs.
Carlyle Campbell Library
Meredith College
3800 Hillsborough St.
Raleigh, NC 27607
919-760-8532
