History

"As a monument of the Student Soldier of Old Gold, my mind's eye
perceives a magnificent Memorial Hall, a Student's Union..."

The Iowa Memorial Union has deep roots in UI history, beginning with a student movement for a social and recreational center early in the 20th Century. In 1919, President Jessup advocated for a Student Union on campus to honor servicemen who died in World War I, responding to a trend across the state to build such memorials.

"...the hearthstone of the whole University."

Fundraising commenced, and the Iowa Memorial Union was opened in Dec. 1925, the fourteenth college union built in the U.S. Since then, the building has grown considerably in size and scope, with renovations in the 1950s, '60s, '80s and now, 2005.

"As the Old Capitol is the Center of our official life,
this [the union] will be the focus of our social life."

UI President Walter A. Jessup, 1919

The IMU is still the center for campus life, connecting students, faculty and community members with diverse opportunities in leadership, entertainment, dining, studying and shopping. Home to the University Life Centers, the IMU strives to create vibrant campus gathering places and opportunities that contribute to a higher quality of life for the greater UI community.

Timeline

1910s

1911

• Iowa Union forms as club for men of faculty and student body
• Housed in former Unitarian Church (NE corner of Clinton St. & Iowa Ave.) until 1913

1913-14

• Brunswick Bowling Parlor Building (121-123 Iowa Ave.) becomes temporary Union headquarters in Dec. 1913
• Union membership at 500 males; activities include Friday night dances at Old Armory, concerts & debates

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Photo Album

1913 Unity Building

Memorial Case (1st Floor)

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Memorials

Main Memorial, 1st Floor

The main memorial display is located on the first floor and honors all UI students and alumni who died during U.S. armed conflicts. Located between the UBO and CIC, a glass case encloses American and Iowan flags, with plaques listing the names of students and alumni who died...

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