The Council of Independent Colleges: Historic Campus Architecture Project

Haid, The

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The Haid (front facade), Belmont Abbey College

The Haid (partial view of front facade), Belmont Abbey College

The Haid (another partial view), Belmont Abbey College

The Haid (detail of entrance), Belmont Abbey College

The Haid (rear view), Belmont Abbey College

Institution Name: Belmont Abbey College
Original/Historic Place Name: Haid, The
Location on Campus: next to visitror parking, and Maurus Hall
Date(s) of Construction:

1929-1930	original construction McInerney, Michael
1987	renovation, including creation of ballroom, theater, entrance, and plaza
1997	renovation, including creation of open-air terrace

Designer: Father Michael McInerney, O.S.B.
Type of Place: Individual building
Style: Gothic revival, Other (Glossary)
Significance: architecture, culture, history, religion
Narrative: see below
References: see below

Materials:

Foundation: granite

Walls: brick and wood

Roof: uncertain

Function:

ca. 1930	gymnasium
ca. 2004-present (2006)	other (ballroom and snack bar)
ca. 2004-present (2006)	theater

Narrative:
This structure, another Michael McInerney design, was originally a gymnasium. Its name invokes the memory of Belmont's Abbot, Bishop Leo Haid, O.B.S. (Order of Saint Benedict), and the generosity of his family. With its turret-like capitals, high narrow windows with gothic arches, and projecting bays, this Gothic-fortress-like building created an unusual setting for sports and school assemblies. The Haid was converted for use as a Student Center in 1970. In 1987 it was completely renovated, providing a ballroom and theater on the main floor, where the college's renowned Abbey Players, founded in 1884, perform plays and musicals. The entrance and plaza were created as part of the renovation. Another substantial renovation, including the addition of an open-air terrace behind the building, took place in 1997-1999.

References:

Alexander, Frances P., and Richard L. Mattson. Belmont Abbey Historic District [including Belmont Abbey College]. National Register of Historic Places designation report. Washington, DC: U.S. Department of the Interior/National Park Service, 1993.

Baumstein, Paschal. The Art of Michael McInerney. Booklet. Belmont, NC: The Archives of Belmont Abbey, 1992.

Baumstein, Paschal, Beth Bargar, and Debra G. Estes. A Walking Tour of Historic Belmont Abbey. Booklet. Belmont, NC: Belmont Abbey College, 1997.