Morgan Hall, built in 1882, is named for Edward Denison Morgan who was born in the small town of Washington, Massachusetts, in Berkshire County. Although Morgan never attended college, he became involved in politics in Hartford, Connecticut, where he worked in the grocery business in the 1830s. He later moved to New York City, becoming a state senator. Morgan never lost his love for his birthplace, returning frequently during the summer. Williams honored Morgan with an honorary LL.D, recognizing him for his political and patriotic work. When Morgan died in 1883, the College received $90,000 to build the dormitory which now bears his name.
Morgan sits on the corner of Main and Spring Streets, the center of Williamstown and the Williams campus. The hall, long a haven for first years with its four vertical entries, was renovated Summer of 2006 to serve as an upper-class dormitory. The new Morgan Hall houses Sophomores, Juniors and Seniors in small singles, and a few doubles. Each floor has a common room, and the basement houses a large common space with furniture and study spaces, a brand-new kitchen and dining area, and laundry facilities. |