Edmund B. Hayes Hall, now the home of the School of Architecture and Planning, is a South Campus historical landmark. Originally part of the Erie County Almshouse and Poor Farm in the late nineteenth century, Hayes Hall was the early home of the university's central administrative offices. The clock tower above Hayes Hall serves as an inspiring campus icon.

Namesake

Edmund B. Hayes (1849-1923) was an engineer and businessman who built bridges and manufactured autos. He also served as a member of the University of Buffalo Council from 1920 to 1923, and left a bequest of $389,000 to the university. Hayes Hall was one of the original poorhouse buildings on the Main Street property when the university acquired it in 1909. When the structure was remodeled for university use, the Hayes bequest was honored in naming the building.

The clocktower and Westminster chimes were the gift of Kate Robinson Butler (1891-1974), and and were installed in 1928. The four bells located in the open belfry bear inscriptions related to learning: "I am the voice of life; I call you: Come and learn" reads one written by Cuthbert W. Pound, chief judge of the New York State Court of Appeals. Read more: UB Today | UB Archives.

Historical research and photographs provided by University Archives.

Building Facts

Primary function: Academic

Tenants: School of Architecture and Planning, Dean's Office, Architecture and Planning Library

Architect: George Metzger of Buffalo (1874), Jesse Porter (1890's renovation & additions)

Completion date: 1890

Gross square feet: 81,890

Construction cost: $753,000