Davidge Hall

Maryland · United States · School

The oldest medical school building in the western hemisphere, in continuous use for teaching since 1812. It was built with escape routes.

Davidge Hall in Baltimore is the oldest building in the western hemisphere built for medical education, and it has been used for teaching continuously since 1812.

The striking thing about it is the number of ways out. The building has hidden staircases and concealed routes, and they were put there deliberately.

The reason is not comfortable. In the early 1800s dissection was essential to medical training and there was no lawful supply of bodies. Anatomy schools got them by having them taken from graves, and when the public found out, they came for the school. Riots over body snatching happened in cities across the country, and this building was designed so that students and staff could get out and cadavers could be got in.

The dissecting room is at the top, under the dome.

The hall is still used for lectures and is open by arrangement.

FAQ

Where is Davidge Hall located?

Davidge Hall is in Maryland, United States.