Part of the four-building complex of Best, Buell and Wise Halls; surrounding the dining commons. Originally Downing Residence Hall was an all-female dormitory. Today, the residence hall accommodates male and female students which are divided into same-gender suites. Eastern's enrollment grew rapidly in the post-World War II years, resulting in high demand for more on- campus housing. Goddard Residence Hall opened in 1955, and construction began almost immediately on a new housing complex. This time, plans called for four buildings surrounding a central dining facility. When completed, the new housing would contain space for approximately 1,200 students in the geographical heart of campus. The new housing was originally intended for women. Builders hoped to complete the complex by 1958. Downing first opened to students in 1957 and Buell followed in 1958. Best and Wise did not open until the early 1960s. Buell and Downing could each house approximately 300 students. Wise, when it was completed, included recreation, laundry rooms, and meeting rooms, as well as housing for 322 students. Each of the buildings was named for an influential professor at Eastern. Estelle Downing taught English, 1898-1938; Bertha G. Buell taught History, English Literature, and Political Science 1899-1937; Margaret E. Wise, first grade teacher-trainer during her tenure from 1893-1939, and also served as Director of Placement 1927-39; and Martha Best who was a professor of Biology and Bacteriology 1924-1952.