40. Memorial Arch

A class session held outside on the arch.

One of the focal points of Tappan Square, Oberlin's grassy central plaza, The Memorial Arch was originally dedicated in spring 1903 in commemoration of the Oberlin missionaries killed in the Chinese Boxer Rebellion. Today the arch is the backdrop to Oberlin's spring Commencement ceremonies. During stretches of unbearably good weather in the spring, professors often lead their students across the street from King and conduct their classes on the steps of the arch.