Expansion

This section highlights the construction that transformed East Carolina from a teachers training school into East Carolina College, a four-year liberal arts institution. As the college expanded its academics beyond teacher education, new buildings were constructed to house emerging departments in the sciences, humanities, and professional studies. Dormitories and dining facilities were expanded to support an increasing number of residential students. Construction of student-centered spaces like the Soda Shop and recreation areas developed the vision of college life at ECU. The post-World War II era increased enrollment as veterans returned home and pursued higher education under the GI Bill. (Library Exhibits, 2025)

Photograph of the Soda Shop at East Carolina Teachers College

Customers standing at the counter of the Soda Shop at East Carolina Teachers College with Coca-Cola drink machines on the counter. In 1946, the lobby of the Dining Hall (later the Old Cafeteria Building) was remodeled and included the Soda Shop. 

Waller & Smith Studio. Soda Shop . May. 1947. Visual Media: Black and White Photograph Collection. UA55.01.544. East Carolina University Digital Collections. https://digital.lib.ecu.edu/22942. Accessed 19 Jun. 2025

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