Minnie Lou Crosthwaite and Dora Ann Scribner

In 1865, Minnie Lou Scott watched as one of Fisk founders, Erastus Milo Cravath, and his wife first rode onto campus, arriving in a carriage also carrying Tennessee’s governor, William G. Brownlow. Just six years old, Minnie Lou became one of Fisk’s earliest and youngest students, attending the primary school from 1866. As we mentioned earlier in the tour, Cravath became the university’s first official president in 1875. 

Minnie completed her bachelor’s degree at Fisk and joined the faculty, teaching math and education classes. In addition, she became the first female on the administration side—serving as university registrar and alumni coordinator. Crosthwaite dedicated her career to helping a new generation of young people. She sought to transform Fisk students into leaders, and as one of the few Black administrators until the 1940s, Crosthwaite did just that. She passed away in 1937, and 25 years later, this building was completed and named in honor of her life and work. The Tennessean called Crosthwaite a “spring of inspiration for Fisk women.” 

Once next to Crosthwaite Hall was Scribner Hall, dedicated to Professor Dora Ann Scribner. After attending Wellesley College, Scribner joined the faculty at Fisk in 1891 and stayed for 41 years! She taught thousands of English classes over the years. Though she had a reputation as a tough and demanding professor, she was also known as one of the most beloved and respected teachers at Fisk. Scribner Hall was built in 1959 by McKissack and McKissack and served as a women’s dormitory. Unfortunately, Scribner Hall was torn down, but the legacy of Dora Ann Scribner lives on. 

Continue following the horseshoe-shaped drive back to Meharry Blvd. Cross Meharry Blvd. and follow the sidewalk as it veers to the right toward the red-brick Academic Building. Stop when you reach the historical marker at the front of the Carnegie Academic Building.