Foundation of University Hall, 1887

Sir Patrick Geddes (1854-1932) found University Hall, the first purpose built student accommodation, in 1887.

Until the late 19th century, Edinburgh had traditionally been a non-residential university, with students either living at home or in private lodgings. Following the reforms triggered by the Universities (Scotland) Act 1858, there was a growing desire to strengthen the corporate life of the university. Geddes, then working as an Assistant to Alexander Dickson (1836-1887), the Professor of Botany, opened the first of a series of residences at Riddle's Court in 1887. It was an independent, extra-academical experiment, and University Hall remained autonomous and self-governing. It began with ten rooms and seven students who had the right to elect new residents and manage the internal affairs of the residence.