10) Emerson Hall
Emerson Hall is home of the Harvard philosophy department, which in James’ time included both philosophy and psychology. James was present at the dedication of the building in December 1905. The building was designed by Guy Lowell, also known in Boston for the Museum of Fine Arts.
James resigned his Harvard professorship just before his 65th birthday in 1907. He gave his last lecture here, at Emerson Hall, on January 22. His wife Alice and several colleagues were in attendance as he ended his lecture to ovation. His graduate students presented him with a silver-mounted inkwell and his undergrads gave a loving cup.
It's no surprise that William would be a favorite to most students. He was one of the few professors of the period who permitted students to ask questions. More than that, they could stop him on campus or walk home with him to Irving Street discussing or arguing statements he had made in class. At the end of the term he would even ask students to write out criticisms of the course and make suggestions for improvements, and is thought to be the first college teacher in America to do so.
