Massachusetts Hall

   Massachusetts Hall (1720) stands as the oldest building at Harvard and the second oldest academic building in the country. Like many Harvard buildings, the Hall has served many purposes. Originally used as a dormitory, the Hall housed soldiers of the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War. It has also seen days as an informal observatory after Thomas Hollis donated a quadrant and a 24-foot telescope in 1722. Today the President of the University, Provost, Treasurer, and Vice Presidents have offices on the first three floors; freshmen reside on the upper floors.