Gazebo Rebuilt
Article describing the replacement of the 1970's gazebo. This and other articles are available in the University Archives.
Citation for article: "During Spring Break Gazebo Rebuilt," Pieces of Eight, April 1, 1981.
Except for its shake roof, the gazebo on campus was rebuilt sturdily during Spring break, with steel and concrete, and given a fresh coat of paint. Nestled in a dell near the biology building, it awaits the season of azaleas and dogwood.
Built during the mid 70's by a student as a class gift, the original gazebo, made entirely of wood, had deteriorated rapidly. It was leaning 10 inches at the top and the floor was rotting. "It was in bad shape," says Gene Howell, Superintendent of Buildings. "It was either rebuild it or tear it down."
Howell and his crews jacked up the floor. Grounds crews poured a concrete foundation. Then Howell's men went ot work with steel posts and rails and welding torches. They even built steel seats, caulked it all tightly and capped the steel tubing. The painting was designed to match the original wooden structure.
"It's very strong now," says Howell. "I believe it would stand the football team. It will just need paint every four or five years."
The gazebo is a popular, quiet beauty spot where students sit to relax and chat. And it has been the scene of at least one wedding.
