University of Virginia Library

Clearer View

To gain a clearer view of the present
organization, an understanding of its past
history would be helpful. As Bernard C.
Fontana, director of Food Services,
recounted it, his department has a
tradition as old as the University itself.

In the 19th century, when the Grounds
had not yet expanded out of Mr.
Jefferson's original plan, eating facilities
were located in the two-story dwellings
on the central Grounds known as the
Hotels. The Graduate Student Lounge on
West Range at one time housed one of
these early dining halls.

After this phase, dining facilities
moved to Garrett Hall. This area became
known among students as the Commons.
Table service, waiters in formal attire, and
silver were but a few of the reasons for
the popularity of the Commons.