Larkins Hall
When the old Physical Education Building and the Natatorium were being built, the project was completed in two stages (the first in 1931, the second in early 1932) and used two separate contracts. The structure was also enlarged after the fire in the Armory (1958), and again in 1977.
In 1976, the building was named Larkins Hall, after Richard C. Larkins, who served as Director of Athletics from 1946-1970. Larkins also served as chair for the Department of Physical Education from 1947-1968.
Larkins first came to Ohio State as an undergraduate; he played both Varsity football and basketball, and he joined Bucket and Dipper and Sphinx. His senior year he captained the Basketball team, was elected senior class president and was awarded the prestigious Western Conference medal for scholarship and athletics. He graduated with his bachelor’s degree in Commerce in 1931 and received a master’s degree in 1935. While working on his master’s degree, he coached the Freshman Football team at Ohio State. After graduating—again—he coached the football team at the University of Rochester in New York from 1935 until 1937. He returned to Ohio State later that year as an assistant professor in physical education. He was made an associate professor in 1942. In 1946 he was named Ohio State’s Athletic Director.
In the years Larkins served as Athletic Director the number of Varsity sports increased to 18. Larkins built the intramural program from the ground up, making sports available to thousands of students each quarter. Larkins also served on multiple committees of the NCAA. He was also active in the Big 10 Committee and the National Association of Athletic Directors. He retired in 1970, after 37 years of service to the University. Larkins died in April 1977.
more information:
John H. Herrick Archives: Larkins Hall
