Lyons Hall (University of Notre Dame)

Lyons Hall is one of the 29 residence halls and one of the 14 female dorms at the University of Notre Dame. Lyons is located on South Quad, next to the Rockne Memorial Building.Constructed in 1925 as a residence for 195 men; One of the first residence halls to incorporate the proximity of the lake in its design (thus, the picturesque views of St. Mary's Lake through its archway); Dedicated in honor of Joseph Lyons, an English professor in the 1860's; Originally known as an honors hall; Converted in 1974 to Notre Dame's sixth residence hall for women; Hall leadership coordinates annual Mara Fox Run which raises funds for a scholarship of a former resident of Lyons Hall who was killed in 1993.

Hall History

Lyons Hall is dedicated to the memory of Professor Joseph A. Lyons, one of Notre Dame's most distinguished early faculty members. Lyons first came to Notre Dame as a fifteen-year-old orphan in 1848, entering the shoemaker's shop as an apprentice. By 1851 he had impressed even Father Sorin with his determination and attitude. As a reward, the President gave him one free year of tuition at the University, and Lyons entered the Scholasticate to study for the ministry. After several years he decided to pursue a career in teaching instead of the priesthood. Lyons graduated from Notre Dame in 1862, receiving highest honors.

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