Ashbel Smith Building

Ashbel Smith Building UTMB Galveston

Ashbel Smith Building

The Ashbel Smith Building, also known as Old Red, is a historic building located on the campus of the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) in Galveston, Texas. It is one of the oldest medical school buildings in the United States and has played a significant role in the history of medical education in Texas.

History

The Ashbel Smith Building was completed in 1890 and named after Ashbel Smith, a prominent physician, diplomat, and educator who was instrumental in the establishment of the University of Texas and its medical branch. The building was designed by the renowned architect Nicholas J. Clayton in the Romanesque Revival style, characterized by its distinctive red brick and stone construction, which earned it the nickname "Old Red."

Architecture

The building's design features a combination of Romanesque and Gothic elements, including arched windows, a prominent clock tower, and intricate stone carvings. The interior of the building includes large lecture halls, laboratories, and administrative offices, all designed to support the medical education and research activities of UTMB.

Significance

The Ashbel Smith Building is a Recorded Texas Historic Landmark and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It has been a central part of the UTMB campus for over a century and continues to be a symbol of the university's commitment to medical education and research. The building has undergone several renovations to preserve its historic character while updating its facilities to meet modern standards.

Current Use

Today, the Ashbel Smith Building houses various administrative offices and serves as a venue for special events and lectures. It remains an iconic landmark on the UTMB campus and a testament to the university's rich history and tradition of excellence in medical education.

Related Pages

• University of Texas Medical Branch
• Ashbel Smith
• Nicholas J. Clayton
• Romanesque Revival architecture
• Gothic Revival architecture
• Recorded Texas Historic Landmark
• National Register of Historic Places

See Also

• List of historic buildings in Texas
• History of medical education in the United States

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