Shea and Durgin Halls

Shea and Durgin Halls. These twin residential towers are prominent landmarks on the campus of the University of New Hampshire in Durham, New Hampshire. Constructed during a period of significant expansion in the 1960s, they have served as central hubs for student housing and academic life for decades. Their distinct architectural style and location within the New England university's landscape make them recognizable fixtures.

History

The construction of these buildings was completed in 1966, a period of rapid growth for the University of New Hampshire under the leadership of presidents like John T. G. Nichols. They were built to address the post-World War II surge in enrollment driven by the G.I. Bill. Named for notable figures in the university's history, the halls honor individuals such as Edward D. Shea and Charles Durgin, who contributed significantly to the institution's development. Their opening coincided with the broader cultural shifts of the 1960s, becoming home to generations of students through events like the Vietnam War protests and the rise of digital age technologies.

Architecture and design

Designed by the prominent Boston architectural firm Perry, Dean, Stahl & Rogers, the structures are prime examples of Brutalist architecture, characterized by their robust concrete forms and functional aesthetic. This style was prevalent in academic construction during the mid-20th century, seen in other works like those of Paul Rudolph and I.M. Pei. The twin towers rise prominently above the surrounding campus landscape, which includes older Colonial Revival buildings and the nearby Memorial Union Building. Their design emphasizes verticality and modular repetition, creating a stark contrast with the traditional New England architectural vernacular of the Durham, New Hampshire area.

Academic use and facilities

Primarily residential, the buildings also contain various academic and support facilities that serve the broader University of New Hampshire community. They house classrooms, faculty offices for departments such as Psychology and Sociology, and common study areas utilized by students from across colleges like the College of Liberal Arts. The facilities have been periodically updated to support modern pedagogy, including technology upgrades to support University of New Hampshire initiatives in digital learning. Their integrated design places living and learning spaces in close proximity, supporting the residential college model championed by institutions like Yale University.

Student life and housing

As key first-year residence halls, they are integral to the onboarding experience for thousands of students entering the University of New Hampshire. The community within is organized by floors and sections, fostering environments that support organizations like the Student Senate and Resident Hall Association. The halls are situated near central campus amenities such as Holloway Commons dining hall and the Whittemore Center, facilitating a vibrant social life. Living there provides immediate access to campus events, from lectures by speakers like Maya Angelou to athletic events supporting the New Hampshire Wildcats.

Notable alumni and faculty

Over the decades, many individuals who have lived or worked within these buildings have gone on to achieve distinction. Alumni include journalists like Tomie dePaola and public servants such as John E. Sununu. Faculty who have held offices there have included researchers recognized by the National Science Foundation and authors published by Harvard University Press. The community has also produced leaders in business, with graduates taking executive roles at companies like Liberty Mutual and Fidelity Investments, as well as artists exhibited at institutions like the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston.