As a dedicated physics student, Norman Ricker followed the construction of the Physics Building with real interest. He took quite a few photos of it, some from angles that I don’t often see. Here for example is a pretty straight shot from the east side, which I can’t think I’ve ever seen before:
He also managed to get a picture of the shining new teaching lab inside:
And this . . . . well, I don’t know quite what to make of it, but I think it was taken by the arcade that connects the main part of the building to the amphitheater. I recognize two of the students but I don’t know what they’re doing or what the structure might be for:
And speaking of the amphitheater, here’s a brief newspaper story from December, 1914 about its official opening. It was a grand event, befitting the appearance of a new academic building at the seat of higher learning in Houston. Note especially the performance of both classical and popular tunes by the newly formed Rice Band. It’s director was none other than my long-time crush, W.T. Betts.
Bonus: Those trees that look like sticks in the top picture are being trimmed this summer.
Extra Bonus: 