The fate of Kingery Hall remains in limbo as college administrators, contractors, and insurance representatives grapple with the costs of restoring or replacing the building.
"The major hold up is the insurance settlement," said Larry Griffith, Wabash’s Chief Financial Officer. "There is a difference of opinion between the insurance company and the contractor representing Wabash as to the actual projected cost of what it will take to restore the building to its previous condition."
Kingery Hall was the biggest victim of a violent thunderstorm in April of last spring. The storm took down several trees on campus, including one very old and large white oak. The storm ripped the roof off Kingery, and it has been closed since April.
Before the storm, Kingery housed a computer lab and the offices of several emeritus faculty members. That computer lab is closed, with several of the computers now in other labs.
Kingery also enjoys a long history with the College. It is the oldest academic building that remains in its original location. Beginning in 1854, it served as a preparatory school for the College, a professor’s home, a dormitory, and a campus infirmary.
About two weeks ago, the College administration was close to making a final decision on the fate of the building. However, the failure of the contractor and insurance company to come to an agreement has prevented any resolution on the matter.
"It looked like we would be moving toward demolition of Kingery," President Pat White said Monday. "We may still move in that way, but we are looking at some other options. The next few days will tell us if not the final decision, the timetable for such."
Griffith explained the confusing nature of the ordeal. "We hope to know in the very near future of its outcome. However, we have been hoping to know for some time. It is still a confusing issue."