Xavier Hall - Saint Francis Xavier University (SFX)

The first wing on Xavier Hall was built in 1880, under the direction of Bishop John Cameron. This re brick building once housed all of St. F.X. University. It contained a chapel, offices, living quarters, dining room, and a kitchen for both faculty and students. From 1880-1887, the number of students enrolled doubled. It became evident that the college now required more room and subsequent wings were added. By 1895 preparations were underway for the expansion of the west wing of Xavier Hall. A new two-storey building extending 60 feet to the west was constructed. 

The first motherhouse of the Congregation of the Sisters of Saint Martha, St. Martha's Convent was added to the structure in 1888. Presently this wing is the Geology Building. The college administrators decided by 1899, to establish a science department separate from the arts course. Thus a new brick building was constructed which extended north and south of the main building. It contained well-equipped laboratories for the study of physics, chemistry, and the natural sciences. St. F.X. has grown over the years, from a small diocesan college with a few buildings, to an extensive campus that hosts 4,100 students a year, and employs 754 faculty and staff.