2008 Woodie Awards
Washburn boasts studiousness, pillow forts
Carly Ramer
Issue date: 9/21/06 Section: Features
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Singles: 15
Doubles: 14
Capacity: 43
Location: Green Street, directly across from Seeyle Hall
One of the three original houses built with the purpose of housing Smith College students, Washburn, like all other houses on campus, has its own unique characteristics. Named for William Barren Washburn, one of the first trustees of the college, the house was given a 400-book library collection by alumnae on its 50th birthday. Historical uniqueness and alumnae attention aside, Washburnites also call it home for other reasons. (Yes, besides having quiet hours that start two or three hours earlier than most Quad houses on the weekend nights).
You know you've arrived at Green Street - or at least the Green Street that holds true to every stereotype you've heard - when the Molly Weasley society is the highlight of many residents' weeks. Molly Weasley is actually a collaborative effort between Washburn and Hubbard, and some residents of both houses gather in the Washburn living room to read Harry Potter out loud and drink tea. It is strictly BYOM (Bring Your Own Mug).
Washburn plays the role of a haven for the quiet and studious, and it is perfect for those who enjoy the finer things in life - such as fort night (where Washburnites build forts out of blankets in their living room and watch movies), being able to find someone to have a cup of tea with at any time or generally giving love to Smith College's best-kept secret - Washburn's mascot, Safety Man.
Safety Man, a dummy with a plastic head and hands (often sporting some outrageous color of nail polish) and a cloth body (also usually festively decorated, especially for the annual Halloween Party), can be found loitering about the house, studying hard, or relaxing in a corner of the stairwell. Wherever he's found, he's usually surrounded by a bevy of Washburnites. Laugh all you want; he's pretty scary when you walk into the dark living room and see the outline of a man!
Though the house is not a home for everyone, those who do find their place here have found friends for life - and a lifetime supply of tea.
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