by Kara Petrovic // Fall 2013

It goes without saying that today’s student housing is a far cry from 40 years ago. And while housing for the Millennial Generation is equipped with the same amenities they’ve grown up with — technology, privacy and the common conveniences of the 21st century — some things remain the same … late-night laughs and unforgettable memories.

On the heels of World War II, out-of-town students and cadets occupied Epperson House until the four-story Men’s Residence Hall, commonly known as Cherry Street Hall, opened in 1957 to accommodate 270 students.

Each room in the “modern” air-conditioned Cherry Street Hall was equipped with twin beds, desks and chairs, as well as bookshelves and lamps. But students even then were required to supply their own bed linens and towels.

Women invaded Cherry Street in 1958. An alarm system on the outside of the entry door protected the 21 women who occupied the fourth floor. Women were expected to be in their rooms by 11 p.m. Sunday–Thursday and by 1 a.m. on Friday and Saturday.

Although radios and electric clocks were allowed in the rooms in the 1950s, television sets were not. However, the university provided TVs in the hall’s lounge areas for recreational purposes.

Students now choose between Oak Street Hall and Johnson Hall, which offer semi-suites with private baths, or Oak Place Apartments, which provides the luxury of apartment-style living at an affordable price.