COLUMN: Give history its due

From Kent Malmros', "Everything Old is New Again," Fall '99 From Kent Malmros', "Everything Old is New Again," Fall '99Right now, Penn is in the midst of an architectural transformation of astronomical proportions. New projects like Sansom Common and Sundance Cinemas have been the most high-profile elements of the effort to revitalize the area. Much of the hype surrounding Perelman follows the notion of building something new. But what makes Perelman special is that it aims to place the active heart of future Penn communities in the midst of the University's past. In 1872, Penn moved to West Philadelphia from Center City. And the buildings in Perelman Quad are a part of that history. The first classes held in West Philadelphia were held in College Hall. Just two years later, Logan Hall opened to house the Medical School. And in 1896, Penn established the first student union in Houston Hall. This year, those buildings, as well as Irvine Auditorium, will reopen. And while they will be part of something new and vibrant, their history will remain old. So will their architecture. The University has put forth a $300 million proposal for a dorm and dining overhaul. Much of that money will pay for a completely revamped Hamilton Village, adding more new buildings to Penn's campus. However, $75 million of that money has been allocated specifically for the purpose of renovating and preserving the Quad. Some of the renovations are intended to modernize many aspects of the Quad's infrastructure, allowing for better heating, water and electrical systems. But much of the work has focused on restoration of the structure's original 1895 architecture. Penn has made similar commitments to Silverman Hall, the home of the Law School since 1900, currently undergoing renovations to prepare it for another century of education. Campus-wide, Penn is ensuring that while you may not recognize Walnut Street in five years, there will be familiar landmarks on Spruce Street and even Locust Walk. The preservation of these buildings is more important than the construction of any new retail. While Sansom Common may have a future, College and Logan halls capture the past. Much of the vitality of the University comes from its history. Penn would be nothing without Ben Franklin or David Rittenhouse. And Penn would certainly not be Penn without College Hall or Logan Hall. The same may be true one day of Sansom Common and Sundance Cinemas or Judith Rodin and John Fry. But that's hard to envision now. And if it does become a reality, it will take years to write similar significance into their names. Enjoy shopping in Sansom Common. And relish seeing an artsy film next spring at Sundance Cinemas. But take a walk through College Hall and feel lucky that the University cherishes its past as much as its future.