The Hall of Fame for Great Americans
The Hall of Fame for Great Americans
The past comes face to face with the future every day at Bronx Community College. As thousands of Bronx Community College students learn and study with the Hall of Fame for Great Americans close at hand, they are easily reminded that greatness is well within their reach.
The Hall of Fame for Great Americans is the United States’ first hall of fame. It is a national treasure that serves as a constant reminder that America’s strength is derived from the vitality, creativity, and intellect of its people. This historic and democratic institution celebrates not only the exploits of leaders and soldiers but also honors scientists, educators, humanitarians, and artists. Honorees range from Alexander Graham Bell and George Washington Carver to Susan B. Anthony and Abraham Lincoln.
Since the early 1900s, 98 bronze busts have been installed to recognize some of the most respected American achievers. Initially, Stanford White, the most respected and well-known architect of the last century, designed spaces for 102 busts. All 102 places were to be filled with elected Americans. However, four busts were never commissioned due to a lack of funds. The four elected but never installed were industrialist Andrew Carnegie, Chief Justice Louis Brandeis, botanist Luther Burbank, and humanitarian Clara Barton. Subsequently, the busts of two Southern generals were removed.
For additional information on the Hall of Fame please refer to the brochure below.
Also read the story behind the New York University campus designed by Stanford White, located on the campus of Bronx Community College.
Virtual Hall of Fame For Great Americans
HOURS OF OPERATION:
Monday – Friday
8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Saturday and Sunday
8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (when the school is open).
GML tours need to be scheduled
FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT:
Therese LeMelle
Phone: 718-289-5160
Therese.Lemelle@bcc.cuny.edu
SHARE
The BCC Archives Hall of Fame Collection seeks documents, artifacts and personal stories related to efforts to elect Great Americans. Great Americans were nominated through a grassroots, democratic process. Citizens rallied support and raised money through letter writing, fundraising events, and bake sales to secure their nominees’ election to the Hall of Fame.
Bronx Community College
2155 University Avenue,
Bronx, NY 10453