Postle Hall
On May 13, 1948, a ground-breaking ceremony was held for what we know today as Postle Hall, formerly known as the Dentistry Building.
In 1976 the building was renamed to honor Wendell D. Postle, former Dean of the College of Dentistry from 1939-1964. In 1950 the building opened to students, but there have been three additions and several renovations since then.
The “original” portion of the building is today’s Northwest quarter, consisting of a basement and three floors. The first students moved from Hamilton Hall into the then-new building in December 1950.
The second section is the present-day Northeast corner, which was begun in 1957 and completed in 1959.
The later portions (today’s Southwest and Southeastern corners) were built between 1964 and 1967.
Postle Hall is home to the College of Dentistry and includes the Dental Faculty Practice, as well as Student Dental Clinics, where students – at various stages in their schooling – can get practice providing dental care and services.
Wendell D. Postle graduated from Ohio State’s College of Dentistry in 1923. He opened his own practice that same year, and became a part-time faculty member with the college. In 1938 Postle became the acting Dean of the College of Dentistry, and in 1939 he officially was made Dean.
During Postle’s tenure, more than 3,000 dentists, 900 dental hygienists, and 200 master’s and doctoral students graduated from the program.
Dean Postle retired in 1964, due to a university rule at that time requiring retirement at age 65. Postle was made dean emeritus and continued to practice in Columbus for many years. He passed away at age 83 in January 1984.
more information:
John H. Herrick Archives: Postle Hall
