Photo: Lexington Herald-Leader

On May 15, 2001, just a few weeks before the completion of
an extensive renovation project, the Administration
Building caught fire. There was extensive damage, but
examination later indicated that the walls were still sound,
and restoration work began. A building dedication on
Oct. 25, 2004, celebrated the return of President James K.
Patterson’s building, which was originally designed by
Harry P. McDonald of Louisville. The restoration allowed for
a roof ridge to be placed exactly at the same elevation as
the original building, and the tower was reclaimed on top.
Known as the Administration Building throughout most of
the 1900s, it reverted to its original name, Main Building,
after the restoration.

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