Now on display in the main lobby of the OHSU Library is the latest exhibit from the Historical Collections & Archives. The exhibit titled, “Architectural Renderings: From Neo-Classicism to Modernism” reveals in pen and ink the culmination of the dreams and aspirations of Kenneth A. J. Mackenzie, second Dean of the University of Oregon Medical School. What was initially given the derisive moniker, “Mackenzie’s Folly”, enveloped the optimism and hope of this one man: to build a world class medical education center perched high above Portland’s busy center.

The “Folly” is immortalized in the merged architectural styles represented in the extraordinary drawing by architect, Ellis F. Lawrence (1879-1946), et al. Though quite different from Lawrence’s original interpretation, the dream has come to fruition. From one small seed a great university has emerged.

The illustrations displayed represent various architectural styles and depict campus structures designed by architects, Lawrence and Holford, Burns, Bear, McNeil & Scheider, Campbell Yost Partners, Zimmer, Gunsul, Frasca, Thomas Hacker and Lawrence, Tucker & Wallman and two works by artist [Forrest Cannzeta?].

I hope that everyone will be able to come to the exhibit, but for those who cannot, an online component will be available. Please visit our Exhibits web page to see the past and present exhibits from the OHSU Historical Collections & Archives. Questions and comments about the exhibit can be directed to Archivist Karen Peterson (peterska@ohsu.edu or 503-494-3239).