Seale Hall (1935-2019) served as the first male dormitory on campus and was named after Dr. Edward Wynn Seale who served as the second President of Texas College of Arts & Industries (now Texas A&M University-Kingsville).
The demolition of the 84-year-old building began earlier this month and has sparked many emotions.
“At first, my jaw dropped, I knew it was going to happen eventually, but I guess I just wasn’t prepared to actually see it. It was surreal. So many hours spent in the building that at that time housed the Alumni Association, my first job,” said Kimberly Whitley, TAMUK alumnus.
The University Police Department was also located in Seale Hall on Santa Gertrudis before relocating to Lewis Hall on University Boulevard. Lieutenant Todd Burris of the Texas A&M University- Kingsville Police Department recalls pros and cons about the move closer to campus.
“Everyone knew where we were located [at Seale Hall]. It was easily accessible as far as parking for anyone who needed to come see us. Now it’s a little more difficult to park,” Burris said.
Burris said Seale Hall had to undergo plenty of maintenance to keep up with different building codes. The move to Lewis Hall was favorable, having more interaction with students on campus and not worrying about equipment being damaged with the flooding that affects the Kingsville area.
Although many students were hopeful for a new parking lot, the area will remain vacant until the approval for construction of a new building next year.
“We already have a design for the new building which will include areas like Development and Alumni Affairs, Career Services and University Police,” said Dr. Teresa Riley, VP of student affairs
Texas A&M University- Kingsville loses a piece of its original history but many memories will live on in those who shared experiences with Seale Hall. Gone, but never forgotten.