Recreation Hall

Backside of the Recreation Hall

Interior of the Recreation Hall

Located by Lake Virginia, Recreation Hall was built in 1926 as a surprise gift for Dr. Hamilton Holt at a cost of $8,280. It served as the gymnasium for Rollins College after the Lyman Gym was converted into classrooms. The Recreation Hall included a field house and theater. Made of wood, it had a seating capacity of 2,000 people. Originally structured as open pavilion, the building was later enclosed to serve as a place for large gatherings on campus. The Recreation Hall had housed many events including: the inauguration of Hamilton Holt, launch of Rollins Animated Magazine, performance of Zora Neal Hurston, student theatrical plays before the Annie Russell Theatre was built, and many other balls and luncheons. On March 30, 1960, Recreation Hall got struck by lightning and burned to the ground.

Recreation Hall burning in 1960