When building began at the new campus, where the College is now located, the Class of 1914 published a “vision” of their new campus. In this vision was a pergola in the very center of the campus, where it now resides. It is believed that Gertrude Harner Apple, President Apple’s second wife, planted the wisteria around the pergola. In 1999, the pergola was dedicated as the Andrew G. Truxal Pergola, in honor of Hood’s third president.
The pergola has been witness to many events on campus, from solemn gatherings of remembrance or unity to the annual “Pergola Party” or “Primal Scream”. It was even heavily damaged by fire in May, 1966, after seniors piled four feet of newspapers in the center as a senior prank. Two Ft. Detrick soldiers were believed to have started the fire as a joke in the middle of the night, but not with the intention of causing property damage.
As the center of campus, all paths lead to the pergola where, according to tradition, no harsh words are spoken. And, to keep friendships after graduation, Hood friends are careful not to “split the poles” when walking underneath the pergola. One of Hood’s newer and most loved traditions is the Lighting of the Pergola in November when lights are strung to set the spirit for the holidays. What one can say for certain is that the Pergola is the center of campus and provides a beautiful place for shade, reflection, and good conversation.
