Old Main Memorial Plaza & Sphere

Artist: Stanley O. Johnson

Commissioned by: University of North Dakota

Installation: 1963

Medium: Welded steel and bronze

Stand where the past meets the future. The plaza between Merrifield and Twamley Halls marks the site of Old Main, the University’s first building, Old Main. Commonly known as the “Eternal Flame” and created by a longtime UND art professor Stanley Johnson, the 16-foot high sphere represents the ongoing search for education and growth. Laced with 29 figures representing educational development. An eternal flame burns at the center of the sphere. The names of the eight presidents who served in Old Main from 1884 to 1962, a depiction of Old Main, and four lines of UND's anthem "Alma Mater" are engraved on a bronze plaque at its base. Johnson also designed the benches, tables, and plaza.