Class Year

2011

Files

Download

Download Full Text (293 KB)

Document Type

Student Research Paper

Publication Date

Fall 2009

Description

It is crucial not to underestimate your surroundings, for every place embraces a story. My story unfolds two years ago during a perfect day in late summer of 2007, a day to witness the beauty of Gettysburg College at its prime. Merely a skittish freshman, I remember walking hurriedly to my first Astronomy class in Masters Hall while simultaneously attempting to soak in the pristine condition of the surrounding brick buildings and picturesque landscape. I could not help but feel intimidated by the upperclassmen, already accustomed to the Gettysburg lifestyle. Quickening my pace, I finally reached Masters Hall and paused before the massive, elaborate brick structure just before its entrance. The fountain was not operating and I remember wondering why and what it would look like if it were. As I moved closer and peered inside, soapsuds blanketed the water‟s surface. It was a humbling moment for me, the perfect welcome to my Gettysburg College experience. It was one that made me realize that aside from the serious education I knew that would undoubtedly receive, it was not quite time to grow up. As a person with a valued appreciation for aesthetics, the sights and sounds of the Masters fountain have always provided tranquility, even in the most stressful situations. Whether it is the scene for a harmless prank, the location of a midnight swim (for all of the doubters, one of my sorority sisters has in fact jumped into the fountain), a place to meet, or simply an object of visual appeal, the Master‟s fountain is an essential landmark on the Gettysburg campus. [excerpt]

Course Information:

  • Course Title: HIST 300: Historical Method
  • Academic Term: Fall 2009
  • Course Instructor: Dr. Michael J. Birkner '72

Hidden in Plain Sight is a collection of student papers on objects that are "hidden in plain sight" around the Gettysburg College campus. Topics range from the Glatfelter Hall gargoyles to the statue of Eisenhower and from historical markers to athletic accomplishments. You can download the paper in pdf format and click "View Photo" to see the image in greater detail.

Keywords

Gettysburg College, Hidden in Plain Sight, fountain, J. William Warehime, Masters Hall

Disciplines

Public History | United States History

Department 1

History

Campus Location

Masters Hall

Preserving the Memory: An Examination of the Masters Fountain Plaque, Donated by J. William Warehime

View Photo

COinS