Index
 
The following timeline chronicles the building of
NYU School of Law’s academic facility Vanderbilt Hall.
Year
 
 
 
 
Event
Post War Expansion
With the end of World War II in 1945 veterans returned
home, looking to partake in higher education.
 
The Vision
Dean Arthur T. Vanderbilt wanted NYU to be at
the forefront of public and private law.
 
A New Law Center
In the fall of 1947, NYU unveils plans for a new
Law Center on Washington Square Park.
 
The Local Community
Background on the villagers midway through the twentieth century.
 
Save Washington Square Committee
Villagers organize their protest of the New Law Center.
 
NYU’s Confirmation & Reaction
How the university deals with the vocal villagers.
 
The Stalemate
NYU lies low as they complete raising required fund for the building.
 
Community Leverage, NYU Services the Locals
NYU feels the heat from local activists and accommodates their needs.
 
Construction on the Law Center
The residential block undergoes demolition.
 
Vanderbilt Hall
Construction is completed.
 
Concluding Thoughts
    What can we draw from this case of NYU expansion?
 
2007
1951
1950
1949
1948
1947
1946
An architect’s conceptual drawing of what the completed Vanderbilt Hall would look like from an aerial view.