The original power building was converted into a dormitory and named Robert Black Hall. What had been the stables became a dormitory with the addition of a second floor and was named Whitthorne. Moore and Frierson Halls were part of the original plant and were converted to dorms. Moore was named after John Trotwood Moore, a distinguished author and poet, who was born in Marion, Alabama. Frierson was named for Meade Frierson who died in WWI.

Classes were held on the first floor of Old Main (or Polk Hall as it was officially but rarely called) and the second floor was used as a dormitory. . The former commandant's quarters were occupied by the school president but students preparing for the service academies were billeted on the upper floors.

Faculty officers had apartments in all the dorms and were