Farewell to Sutton Hall: A Beloved Chapter in Florida College’s History

October 31, 2024 | 2-3 min read

Pictured here are the girls’ dorm moms Jeannie Balentine (Jennifer Hall), Judy Bertram (College Hall) and Becky Cawthon (Hinely Hall) standing in front of Sutton Hall, the former women’s dorm that housed hundreds of students through the years.

Sutton Hall stands like a seasoned storyteller on the Florida College campus—a testament to nearly a century of lives and memories carved into its Mediterranean-inspired architecture. Acquired by the college in the 1940s from Dr. Sherman K. Smith, what once was the Temple Terrace Country Club, a charming hotel, and event space for Tampa’s visitors transformed, over the decades, into the heartbeat of campus life.

In Sutton Hall’s graceful halls, generations gathered for banquets, performances, spiritual singings, and receptions. Beyond hosting cherished events, Sutton became a home for female residents and a hub for campus life—housing classrooms, a cafeteria, and study spaces that fostered friendships and learning. Though many activities have since moved, Sutton Hall remains a beloved gathering place for alumni events, devotions, and special celebrations.

“It’s fitting that the Sutton Hall Tower became the symbol of Florida College, capturing a legacy rich with history and cherished memories,” shares H.E. Buddy Payne, (alumnus 1963-’65, former president of Florida College and chancellor).

Independent assessments by Sol & Associates and Franklin Development revealed that restoring Sutton Hall to meet current standards would be financially impractical, with severe structural limitations hindering efforts. Even decades ago, significant renovation would have required extensive overhauls, and today, only a fraction—less than 30% of the original studs—could feasibly be preserved. For the remainder, walls to foundations would need a complete rebuild to ensure safety, functionality, and compliance with modern codes. Such a transformation, though honoring the past, would risk erasing the charm and character that generations have cherished. Instead, we look to the future, where this area of campus will carry Sutton’s legacy forward in a new form, with its spirit forever embedded in the campus it served so well. Sutton Hall’s legacy will forever remain—a symbol of warm gatherings, growth, and memories. Though this part of campus will evolve, the spirit Sutton inspired will live on, guiding the future with an ever-present reverence for the past.

For more information regarding the details of the demolition of Sutton Hall, please see our FAQ page linked here.

Photo Courtesy, Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Library System
Photo Courtesy, Florida College Archives
Photo Courtesy, Florida College Archives
Photo Courtesy, Florida College Archives

Photo Courtesy, Florida College Archives

Photo Courtesy, Florida College Archives