Virginia Tech® home

Thomas Hall

191 Turner St. NW
Thomas Hall
Thomas Hall

The original residence hall was built in 1949 at a cost of $427,185. It was completely renovated in 1970 and additional renovation work was done in 2004. It was named for Sgt. Herbert J. Thomas Jr., a 1941 alumnus who enlisted in the military two months before graduation. The building demolition was completed on November 3, 2017, and the area will be green space for the near future.

Herbert Joseph Thomas Jr.

Herbert Joseph Thomas Jr.

Thomas Hall memorialized Herbert J. Thomas Jr., a 1941 alumnus who enlisted in the military two months before graduation and saw action against Japanese forces on the Solomon Islands during World War II. On Nov. 7, 1943, the sergeant flung himself across a grenade, giving his own life to save his comrades. To honor his sacrifice, a destroyer and hospital were named for him, and he received posthumously the Navy Cross and the nation's Medal of Honor. 

Building History

Thomas Hall was first occupied in fall 1949. Cost of construction was $427,185. It was closed for renovation after fall 1969 and reopened in fall 1970. It was further renovated in summer 2004.

Originally Built:
1949
Map Grid:
M-2
Abbreviation / Number:
THOM / 012
Coordinates:
37.23214, -80.42005