As one of several Harding alumni in this section, I am certain that I will not be the only person to publish a piece on this building. Despite this possible lack of uniqueness, I feel compelled to write about Harding. What this building means to me is merit enough to publish something, not to mention the historical, architectural, and community significance of the structure.
To begin with some of the historical and architectural importance of the building, one can see from the attached image that it is constructed in the fortress-like, brown brick style in which many pedagogical buildings were constructed during the era of Harding’s inception. Linoleum tile, fluorescent lights, light-colored wooden doors and handrails are pervasive in the space. Antique metal lockers- many of which having long-since become defunct- line the halls on both sides, old and often unceremonious paintings hanging on the taupe drywall above them speak to the notions of grandeur to which the school hopes its pupils aspire. Harding is also important to its community- located in the heart of a somewhat historic, quaint little neighborhood, it has become a fixture. This community was also important to the students- Oklahoma City’s famed Asian District, the Paseo, and some of the more interesting developments on Western Avenue and on 36th Street are all within walking distance from the school, providing innumerable opportunities for after school adventures, even for students who cannot yet drive.
As a quick aside, it is worth noting that Harding, the institution, has been relocated to another building- one which, while newer and nicer, and sans risk of asbestos- which lacks much of the classical beauty of the original building, and certainly the community element.
Finally, with regard to my experience of the building and my continued feelings toward it, I must say that I often sense a warm nostalgia when thinking on the place. Within those crowded and bustling halls, devoid of air conditioning, I would discover so much about the world, the people in it, and myself. I would find community in my peers, all of us bonding through the “trauma” of the preposterous workload for which the school is notorious. I would find a feeling of safety and comfort in expressing myself within the speech and debate team, my principal extra-curricular activity. I would learn how to really ask the important questions, and view the world analytically, to appreciate thorough and fastidious investigation and pondering of issues. I would learn how to make friends, to develop networks, and to enjoy the fruits of hard labor. I would, in short, become myself. So much of the growth I have experienced was catalyzed by the environment created in that old, poorly-ventilated building, sited not far from many of Oklahoma City’s greatest cultural centers. I can only hope that wherever I go next can afford me such room to grow.
