1972, Drake Union exterior

The Drake Union was completed in June and dedicated in August of 1972.

Its stage was meant to replace the Stadium Theater, which held performances under the east side of Ohio Stadium until 1971, as well as serve as a supplemental performance area for the Mershon Auditorium.

Edward S. “Beanie” Drake, for whom the building is named, was manager of the Ohio Union from 1913 to 1946.  He was a founding member of Ohio Staters, Inc., as well as adviser to several campus organizations and was known for his devotion to the students and the university.

The Beanie Drake scholarship is also named in his honor.

more information:
John H. Herrick Archives: Drake Performance and Event Center