- The Forgotten Founder’s Garden
One of the most tranquil and lesser-known spots on campus is the Founder’s Garden, tucked away behind the library. This garden was originally designed to honor the university’s founders, but over time it has become somewhat hidden from the daily hustle and bustle of campus life. The garden features a variety of native plants and flowers, a small pond with koi fish, and benches perfect for quiet contemplation or studying.
The Founder’s Garden holds a historical significance too, as it was planted over a century ago and has been maintained ever since. Students who stumble upon this peaceful retreat often find it to be the perfect spot to escape the busyness of campus life and reconnect with nature. It is a space that pays homage to the university’s origins and offers a serene environment for reflection.
- The Underground Tunnels
Few students know that beneath the surface of UOM lies a network of underground tunnels that were once used to connect various buildings. These tunnels were originally built during the early 20th century to provide maintenance access and were later used during harsh winter months to allow faculty and students to move between buildings without facing the elements. While most of the tunnels are now closed to the public, they remain a fascinating part of the university’s history.
Legends and rumors abound about the tunnels, with some claiming that they were used for secret meetings or even as escape routes during past campus events. Although these tales are mostly myth, the tunnels remain an intriguing aspect of UOM’s history. Occasionally, special tours are organized for students and faculty, allowing participants to explore this hidden part of the university and learn about its past functions and significance.
- The Secret Library Room
The UOM library is renowned for its extensive collection of books and resources, but few people are aware of a hidden room nestled within its walls. This secret study room, known to only a handful of students and faculty, is located behind a disguised bookshelf on the third floor. Accessed by a special key, the room is a quiet, intimate space with comfortable chairs, antique furniture, and shelves filled with rare manuscripts and out-of-print books.
This room was initially intended for faculty use, but over the years, select students have been granted access for research purposes or as a reward for outstanding academic achievements. Those who discover this hidden room often speak of its calming atmosphere and the sense of academic tradition it evokes. It is the perfect spot for those looking for an exclusive, peaceful place to study.
- The Bell Tower Mystery
The iconic bell tower at UOM is a symbol of the university, standing tall in the center of campus. While many students pass by it daily, few know the mysterious history associated with it. According to campus lore, the bell tower was once home to a secret society of students who would meet there after dark to discuss university politics and influence campus decisions.
While no evidence supports these claims, the story of the bell tower adds an air of mystery and intrigue to the otherwise stately structure. The bell tower still rings during special campus events and graduation ceremonies, symbolizing unity and tradition, but its rumored past gives it a layer of intrigue that captures the imagination of students and alumni alike.
- The Old Chapel’s Hidden Crypt
The Old Chapel at UOM is a place of quiet reflection and holds a special place in the university’s religious and spiritual life. However, beneath the chapel lies a hidden crypt that few are aware of. This crypt was originally built to house the remains of one of UOM’s earliest benefactors, a wealthy landowner who played a significant role in the university’s founding. Though the crypt is no longer used for burials, it remains a part of the chapel’s history, preserved as a monument to the university’s past.
Access to the crypt is restricted, but students who are involved in certain campus organizations, such as the history club or religious studies groups, may be granted special permission to visit. For those who have the opportunity to explore this hidden part of the campus, the crypt offers a rare glimpse into UOM’s history and the people who helped shape the institution.
- The Art Building’s Secret Mural
The art building at UOM is home to many student exhibitions and creative projects, but it also hides a fascinating piece of campus history. In a basement storage room, there is a forgotten mural painted by one of UOM’s first art professors. The mural, depicting scenes from university life during the 1920s, was created as a tribute to the students and faculty of the time.
Though the room is rarely used, and the mural is not part of any official tour, it remains a hidden treasure for those who seek it out. Some students in the art department have made it a tradition to visit the mural before their final exams or graduation, considering it a tribute to the university’s artistic legacy.
- Discovering UOM’s Hidden Gems
While the University of McCordsville is known for its academic excellence and dynamic student life, its hidden history and secret spots offer a different kind of enrichment. Exploring these lesser-known areas of campus can provide students with a deeper connection to the university and a greater appreciation for its traditions, stories, and hidden wonders.
For students who enjoy uncovering mysteries, delving into UOM’s hidden gems can become an exciting adventure. Whether you’re visiting the forgotten Founder’s Garden, learning about the underground tunnels, or uncovering the crypt beneath the chapel, these hidden spaces remind us that the university is not just a place of learning but also a place of history and discovery. So next time you’re walking through campus, take a moment to explore, and you might just find a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered.