Page:Samuel F. Batchelder - Bits of Harvard History (1924).pdf/59

 lecture-hall, still with sloping tiers of curved benches, now accommodating 150. A second cupola was thrust through the roof to give additional light to the apartment. Most of the lower floor was turned into a “museum” with glazed cases for the anatomical specimens and what miscellaneous curiosities the College could then boast. At the eastern end was a small laboratory, with a sink and a chemical furnace. Although this floor was apparently as cheerless as ever, “Upper Holden,” with fresh white paint, ample light, and good seating arrangements, became the most popular lecture-hall in college, and later, a favorite evening clubroom. In the eighteen-seventies it was fitted with a stage, and rang with the musical and dramatic performances of the famous Everett Athenæum.

By 1880 the wheel of change had swung full circle. The increasing number and size of recitation-halls had once more rendered the use of the chapel unnecessary, and its nondescript alterations and excrescences were rightly considered intolerable disfigurements. With commendable veneration and care it was restored practically to its original condition. The additional floor was removed, all partitions were torn out, the small windows at the east end were bricked up, and somewhat