The structure was officially named the “Abraham Lincoln Tower” on November 11, 1965, and was completed August 8, 1967. The 23-story tower was named for the nation’s 16th president because he signed the Morrill Act into law in 1862, which established the system of land-grant institutions in the U.S. and thus made the founding of this University possible.

The Tower’s twin is named for Justin Morrill who authored the bill. Originally constructed as a dormitory, the lower 14 floors were converted in 1975 into office space, while the top nine floors remained student housing.

more information:
John H. Herrick Archives: Lincoln Tower