Rosse Hall

A Greek Revival beauty, Rosse Hall is a first-class, 600-seat concert and lecture hall. Within its walls and beneath its attractive wood-beamed ceiling have rung out the voices of such speakers as poet Maya Angelou, biologist E.O. Wilson, and literary giant James Baldwin. Musical talents of the likes of Sonny Rollins, Ladysmith Black Mombazo, and Buddy Rich have entrusted their legendary sounds to the building's fine acoustics.

Projected by Kenyon's founder as one of the College's earliest buildings, Rosse Hall began life in the 1830s and since then has served a multitude of purposes, from College chapel to classroom to gymnasium. In 1999, Rosse received the addition of elegant Storer Hall, which houses the music department. Rosse Hall's front steps are home to two linked traditions cherished by Kenyon students: the Freshman Sing, in which first-year students gather after Opening Convocation to sing College songs for the first time (well, they try!); and the Senior Sing, following Commencement ceremonies, when the same students, now freshly minted graduates, return to reprise them.

Rosse Hall Fast Facts
Offices and Departments in Rosse

Rosse Hall Fast Facts

Built: 1829-34

Named for: Lady Rosse

Original use: College chapel

Current use: Concert and lecture hall

Rosse trivia: Burned shortly before the turn of the twentieth century and was reconstructed; a pillar capital felled by the fire remains where it landed on the lawn to this day.

Offices and Departments in Rosse