Indiana's Limestone Campus—a Guide to the Limestone Architecture of Indiana University Bloomington StoryMap

Abstract

The Indiana University (IU) Bloomington campus is built largely of Indiana limestone, a world-class dimension (building) stone quarried locally in Monroe and Lawrence Counties. Known to geologists as the Salem Limestone, this unique material has been used extensively in building projects across the United States and has contributed to some of the most iconic works of American architecture. On campus, nearly all the academic buildings south of the railroad are built entirely of Indiana limestone, creating a harmonious aesthetic that connects to the landscape. As the Bloomington campus experienced periods of growth in the late 19th century, pre- and post-WWII, and the late 20th century, architects blended popular trends with new interpretations to create unique works of art out of Indiana limestone.

This StoryMap, a digital companion to the printed brochure, "The Limestone Campus: A Walking Tour of IU Bloomington in Stone," shares the historical stories behind 40 buildings on the IU Bloomington campus, including architectural styles, architects, and use and name changes. Extensive photo galleries highlight intricate limestone carvings found around campus.