After a major renovation in 2008-09, Wende Hall is now home to UB's School of Nursing with expanded state-of-the-art classrooms, research center, and specialized laboratories to accommodate a growing student population.

One of the original buildings on the site that would become the South Campus, historic Wende Hall with its distinctive stone façade was originally the maternity ward of the county alms house. After its purchase by the University, the building was named Hochstetter Hall and was the first home for UB's Department of Physics. Over the next few decades, the building has housed various university classrooms and satellite offices, including University Development.

Namesake

Grover William Wende (1866-1926), a graduate of the medical school, served on the Surgeon General's Advisory Committee for the detection and treatment of venereal and skin diseases during World War I.

Historical research and photographs provided by University Archives.

Building Facts

Primary function: Academic

Tenants: School of Nursing

Architect: Jesse Porter (1885); James, Meadows, and Howard (1957 renovations)

Completion date: September, 1885; Addition, 1955

Gross square feet: 76,170

Construction cost: $929,000