Francis Quadrangle

David R. Francis Quadrangle is the historical center of the University of Missouri in Columbia, Missouri. It is named after Missouri governor David R. Francis, and is generally just called "The Quad". Within the quad are two of the most recognizable symbols of the school, Jesse Hall and The Columns. Academic Hall, the first building on MU's campus, was built in the middle of the present day quad. It burned on January 9, 1892, leaving only the famous six columns that now stand in the center of Francis Quadrangle. The Quad is the center of MU's Red Campus and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The quad and five buildings are perhaps the best surviving work of architect Morris Frederick Bell.HistoryThe burning of Academic Hall ushered in a time of great change for the University. There was much support in the Missouri Legislature to move the University to Sedalia. The Governor of Missouri, David R. Francis, sent a telegram to the students of the University assuring them that he would fight to keep the campus in Columbia. He later traveled to Columbia to address the citizens, faculty, and students. After calling for a special session of the Missouri Legislature he was able to appropriate $250,000 for the rebuilding. The University of Missouri was rebuilt in a quad around the columns, with "New Academic Hall" later renamed Jesse Hall on the south, and the Avenue of the Columns on the North.