Originally designed as a mirror image of Rutledge College, DeSaussure included the same east and west dormitory wings and a center space devoted to academic use. Archaeological research on the Horseshoe in the 1970s revealed the foundation for the building was first dug about 200 feet south of where it now stands. It is believed that someone realized the proportions of the future campus quadrangle would have been cramped with the original building placement. Just two years after DeSaussure's construction, an earthquake severely damaged the building, necessitating iron rod reinforcement. A mob of students in 1814 forced open the doors of the building, stole the college bell and attacked the residence of a professor. The militia was called to quell the riot. In 1851, the west wing was destroyed by fire and rebuilt. During the Civil War, DeSaussure served as a hospital, and a portion of the building was used as a federal military prison after the war ended, with refugees occupying the wings. In 1867, the newly reorganized University of South Carolina opened what would be a short-lived medical school with DeSaussure chosen as its site. The building also briefly housed a two-year program for training secondary teachers. In 1918, women students were allowed to live on campus for the first time, and a wing of DeSaussure was designated as their dormitory. Originally called North Building and later Old North Building, DeSaussure was named for Henry William DeSaussure, a S.C. Revolutionary War veteran and legislator. Renovations in 2011-12 resulted in a LEED Silver certification.
Desaussure Residence Hall »Building Abbreviation: DESASR