Designed by noted Philadelphia architect Samuel Sloan (1815-1884), Highland Hall was built sometime around 1865. It is now a four-story, L-shaped, stone building that features a mansard roof, which was a characteristic of the Second Empire style.[2]
Highland Hall was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1978.[1]
It was originally built to serve as a Presbyterian seminary for both sexes. In 1911, it became a female academy and was officially named Highland Hall. It continued to be used as a girls' school until 1940.[2]
Highland Hall was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1978.[1]
In 1940 it became a Roman Catholic Minor Seminary of the Third Order Regular Franciscans for young men studying for the priesthood. It closed in 1968 with four students who transferred to St. Bernardine's Monastery for residence and continued their studies at Bishop Guilfoyle High School in Altoona.[2]
In 1969, it was converted into a county office building.[2]
Highland Hall was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1978.[1]
Highland Hall was subsequently turned into a sixty-five and older, affordable housing facility. The renovation work was performed by Keller Engineers and S&A Homes.[3]
