University of Massachusetts, Amherst
The original UMass Campus dates back to 1863 - when it was founded as the Massachusetts Agricultural College. Throughout its time, it has dramatically evolved and expanded into what it is now, the flagship of the five - college university system.
OLD CHAPEL
Founded in 1885, Old Chapel has served as one of the most iconic and most historic buildings on campus. Starting off its time as a library, as well as a museum and assembly hall.
In addition, Old Chapel served as the home of the Minuteman Band for over 40 years, from the 1960s to Spring of 1997. During this time, the building often served as the meeting location for both Delta Delta and Epsilon Nu's chapter meetings.
The band lost Old Chapel in 1997 due to a need of repairs throughout the building. The university began the nearly $21 million renovation in 2015, after the building was placed on the National Register of Historic Places.
A NEW ERA - The George N. Parks Minuteman Marching Band Building
The UMass Amherst Campus Map
The $5.7 million construction of the George N. Parks Minuteman Marching Band Building resulted in the opening of the new permanent home for the UMMB on November 5th, 2011. The idea for the project began after the closing of Old Chapel in 1997. Named after the previous band director, George Parks died shortly before the building opened for use.
The GNP Band Building serves as the first "permanent" home to the Power and Class of New England since Old Chapel.
