On The Yard

Ah, the United States Naval Academy - where the history is rich, the traditions are timeless, and the Beaux Arts architecture is as striking as the midshipmen in dress whites. If you’ve ever wandered the USNA campus, you’ve probably marveled at the buildings and wondered about their stories. Today, we’re going to play a little game of “Name That Building!”

Here’s how it works: I’ll describe a building on the Naval Academy campus, and you’ll try to guess which one it is. By the end of this post, you’ll feel like an architectural aficionado, ready to impress your friends on your next Yard tour.

Building #1: The Crown Jewel of the Yard

Let’s start with the big one. It’s the first thing most visitors notice when they step onto the Yard, probably because it’s the tallest point on the Naval Academy campus. This Beaux-Arts masterpiece boasts an iconic copper dome that gleams in the sunlight. Inside, it houses a sacred space where midshipmen attend services and pay respects to one of the Academy’s most legendary figures, whose remains rest here.

Hint: Think cross shape, marble elegance, and John Paul Jones.

Building #2: The Hub of Midshipman Life

This building is home to the 4,400 members of the Brigade. It’s where they eat, sleep, and even get to the Post Office from time to time. It includes 4.8 miles of corridors and 1,700 rooms. Fun fact: It’s one of the largest dormitories in the world and has been standing tall since 1908.

Hint: It’s the only dormitory on campus.

Related (another hint): Before There Was Mother B

Building #3: The Center for Learning and Exploration

If midshipmen want to hit the books (or perhaps check out an exhibit on naval history), this is the place to go. Designed in the Classical Revival style, it’s a haven of knowledge with its rows of books, research spaces, and even exhibits (that are currently showcasing John Paul Jones postcards).

Hint: It shares its name with a famous fleet admiral who served as commander in chief, U.S. Pacific Fleet, and Commander in Chief, Pacific Ocean Areas, during WWII.

Building #4: The Pulse of Athletics

It’s not on the Yard, but it’s close enough for a parade of midshipmen to get there on foot. On game day, this venue comes alive with the cheers of midshipmen and fans. It’s home to Navy’s football team and hosts other major events that bring the USNA community together. From flyovers to “Beat Army!” chants, it’s the beating heart of athletic spirit.

Hint: It seats about 34,000 Navy fans.

Building #5: The Maritime Maker

Shaped like the subject taught inside, this building is aptly placed along the water. It’s one of the more modern additions to the architecture on the Yard, and it’s where midshipmen learn sailing and navigation skills critical to their future careers in the Fleet or the Corps.

Hint: Its name honors a U.S. Navy captain with a royal charm.

Building #6: A Newer Addition With a Focus on Cyber

In a nod to the Academy’s forward-thinking approach, this building is all about preparing midshipmen for the challenges of modern warfare - think cybersecurity, data analysis, and high-tech problem-solving. It’s sleek, modern, and packed with cutting-edge technology.

Hint: This building is named for an accomplished mathematician who joined the U.S. Navy Reserve during WWII.

Building #7: The Artistic Side of the Academy

This building is where creativity takes center stage. From the sound of the USNA Glee Clubs, to the upcoming winter musical (running February 21-23), “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee,” it’s one of the Academy’s beautiful cornerstones.

Hint: It’s part of a trio of buildings and it features an iconic clock as its centerpiece.

Related: USNA Winter Musical

Building #8: The Halls of History

Venture to this special building to explore the history of the U.S. Navy, as well as the U.S. Naval Academy. Stocked with fascinating artifacts from great moments of naval history, this is where you’ll find the original “Don’t Give Up the Ship” flag.

Hint: Over 100,000 visitors come here each year to immerse themselves in the U.S. Navy story.

Visit the Yard to See Them All!

How did you do? Whether you guessed all eight, or learned something new, there’s no better way to appreciate these buildings than to see them in person. A stroll through the USNA campus offers a chance to experience the history, soak in the beauty of the Beaux Arts architecture, and connect with the future leaders of the Navy and Marine Corps.

While you’re here, don’t forget to support the midshipmen by attending events, exploring the USNA Gift Shop, or grabbing a bite at The Alley Restaurant. These activities directly support the midshipmen that support our freedom, providing extracurriculars like the arts, theater, music, club sports, and more. And if you’re lucky, you might even catch the midshipmen in formation, or the crisp sound of the Naval Academy Band in action.

So, what are you waiting for? Plan your visit, brush up on your architectural trivia, and get ready to fall in love with the Yard all over again.