In a photo from Mount Two Bit, the original three buildings are viewed that formed La Sierra Academy and which are now part of the university campus. Left to right, Gladwyn Hall, then called North Hall; La Sierra Hall, then the administration building; and South Hall.
PHOTO: LA SIERRA UNIVERSITY LIBRARY SPECIAL COLLECTIONS
A schedule of events can be found at lasierra.edu/centennial
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From Watermelon Patch to University: La Sierra Celebrates 100 Years
t almost didn’t happen. In 1921, constituents of the Southeastern and Southern California conferences enthusiastically voted to develop a new farmsupported academy and junior college, but their proposal was rejected by the General Conference. In early 1922, resolute in their convictions and energized by the strains of “Onward Christian Soldiers,” the constituents prayerfully voted to move forward anyway. With that unwavering spirit began the journey that would lead to the purchase of just over 316 acres in the town of La Sierra, previously part of Rancho La Sierra, a Mexican land grant. Shovels turned the earth in the summer of 1922 and construction began, bolstered by support from the Riverside civic community, private contributions, and many volunteers. An advertisement in the 1922 July edition of the Pacific Union Recorder called for women to join an association raising funds, canning food, and creating furnishings for the new school, writes La Sierra University assistant history professor Katherine Koh in the first chapter of a faculty collaborative book about the school. Classes began with 84 students on Oct. 3, 1922. Conditions were initially less than ideal—while enduring scorching heat and no electricity, some students had to climb ladders to dorm rooms, and sand blew in through unfinished construction.
30 Pacific Union Recorder
La Sierra University
Writes Koh, “A community with a sense of history was established on what was previously a watermelon patch. This community was ultimately strong enough to survive both the Great Depression and the bloodiest war in the world’s history.” The campus in 1927 became a junior college and in 1946 was accredited as a four-year liberal arts college. In 1990 the institution was re-organized as a university. Now a nationally acclaimed institution, La Sierra University’s faculty, many noted in their fields, teach students from around the United States and more than 50 countries. The watermelon patch eventually became the current park-like expanse in the middle of campus lined by its early buildings and shaded by towering fan palms and sprawling Chinese elms. It is known as Founders’ Green. La Sierra University will celebrate its 100th anniversary this year and the remarkable faith, work, and sacrifice of its originators. A campus sculpture will be unveiled on January 18, and events are also planned for alumni weekend April 29-30. A Centennial Gala is slated for Founders’ Day, October 3, during which the book on the university’s history will be released. ____________________ By Darla Martin Tucker
