Within minutes of the Lathrop Hall dedication Dr. Lawrence, President of the Trustees, laid the cornerstone of an addition to the Chemistry Building-a unique juxtaposition of events in Colgate’s history of building construction. This project, too, came from Dr. Merrill’s initiative. When Lathrop Hall had been assured in 1905 he had appealed at once to Andrew Carnegie for funds and, after extended consideration, $20,000 was granted, provided a like sum be raised for endowment for the Chemistry Department. This condition was soon met and the architects, Harding and Seaver, and the contractors for Lathrop Hall given orders to proceed with plans and construction. The three large laboratories, lecture room and other facilities were in use by the following autumn.
During his first months on the campus the President discovered that the dormitories, East and West Halls, had fallen into serious dilapidation. With the requirements of the science departments satisfied and with increased college enrollment pressing for student accommodations, he made plans for their renovation. The only tangible result, however, was the equipping of a lounging room on the first floor of West Hall which faculty wives opened in December 1905 with a tea for students and professors. More extensive remodeling would come with the next administration.
The last major building project of the Merrill administration was the central heating plant which represented a significant advance in efficient maintenance and comfort. The financial assistance of the Baptist