Built with local limestone, the six Ionic-style columns on Francis Quadrangle originally supported Mizzou’s first campus building — Academic Hall. After a fire destroyed Academic Hall in 1892, the Columns were all that remained. Now, they are a testament to our shared history and a symbol of our collective strength. They are a place to read a book in warm weather or a backdrop for graduation photos. They support traditions such as Tiger Walk and showcase our core values banners. Whether you are seeing them for the first time or the thousandth time, the Columns mean you are home.