Zirkle House

Zirkle House: A Hidden Gem in Harrisonburg, Virginia

The Zirkle House, nestled in Harrisonburg, Virginia, is a museum steeped in history and rich in educational legacy. It serves as a captivating reminder of the area’s past while showcasing significant developments in pedagogical practices. Originally established as part of a fundraising campaign led by President Samuel P. Duke in 1920, the museum is a testament to the commitment of the school’s alumnae, who played a vital role in its creation.

A Fundraising Endeavor

To raise funds for a new campus building, the alumnae organized various events, including card parties, theatre productions, minstrel shows, and basketball games. Their efforts culminated in raising $2,000, which contributed to the construction of Alumnae Hall, completed in 1922. This building, located on the site of early May Day exercises, has since provided housing for students and administrative offices.

Alumnae Hall and Kissing Rock

Alumnae Hall features a spacious parlor that served as a student dating center during the 1960s. Presently, the building accommodates the president’s office and other essential administrative offices. An interesting feature uncovered during the construction of Alumnae Hall is “Kissing Rock.” This massive limestone boulder was too expensive to remove, so it was preserved on-site. According to local lore, kissing a person at Kissing Rock is believed to predict the kisser’s future spouse.

Educational Innovations

Another significant development in the museum’s history is the opening of the Anthony-Seeger Campus School in 1958. Under the guidance of the college’s second president, G. Tyler Miller, this school operated as a K through 7 institution for local children and as a training facility for education majors. Named after influential faculty members Katherine M. Anthony and Mary Louise Seeger, the campus school closed in 1982. Its subsequent retrofitting allowed it to house various media stations, including JMU’s student radio station WXJM and the NPR station WMRA.

The Legacy of Ashby Hall

Built in 1911, Ashby Hall became JMU’s second dormitory due to a growing enrollment, which exceeded 300 students. Initially known as Dormitory No. 2, it was renamed in 1917 in honor of Confederate General Turner Ashby, who died during the Civil War nearby. In addition to dormitory accommodations, Ashby Hall provided amenities like a basketball court, enhancing student life on campus.

Today, the Zirkle House stands as a symbol of Harrisonburg’s educational heritage, reflecting the evolution of local education and the community’s indelible mark on its history. With its unique stories and fascinating exhibits, the museum continues to engage visitors while preserving the rich narrative of the area.