Closing of the UM Rathskellar

Last Call, as we know it, has been changed forever.

At the end of the spring semester, there was word that the popular Rathskeller would be torn down in order to make room for a new student activities center.

Threats of the new activities center were made a few years ago but the economy slowed and the project was never started. Now with a 20 million dollar gift ground is finally being broken.

The Rat will be torn down in the summer and will temporarily be moved into the location of Sbarros. Once the new activities center is completed, which is slated to end 2013, the Rat will move into its new permanent home.

“It’s sad knowing that the old rat won't be there when I come back to visit campus,” said Senior Missy Walton, a server at the Rat. “But [it’s] also exciting that the Rat is getting a brand new building because the Rat really needs more space. The people are really what makes the Rat so special and they will be forever with me.”

Some Students are upsetabout moving the Rat into the Sbarros location. Programming in the temporary location won’t change and the comedy shows and Greek programs will still exist with the new Rat location.

“You won't be able to see the lake from the Sbarro courtyard,” said Sophomore Nicole Brzozowski. “”And half the fun of the rat is being right next to the lake with all your friends.”

Other students, however, see the other side of the argument and are happy for the new Rathskeller.

“I think when it all comes down to it, it won't be so bad for the students,” said Senior Eric Speigel. “It will still be open, and eventually they'll get a much nicer building.”

Only time will tell, what the legacy of the old Rat building will have. Would new building still have the same college feel? Will the new activities center give the university an edge in wooing prospective students?

As for right now, students will be mourning the loss of the orange and green tabled, smoky, small polygonal building with the Greek memorabilia and the Sports Illustrated covers of our glory days mounting the walls.

“It’s really a bittersweet feeling,” said Senior Alex Fruin. “After spending so much time there with friends and working there too, it’s so strange to think that when I come back to visit it won’t be there anymore.”


This story was written for the 2011 Ibis Yearbook, the yearbook will be printed and distributed in the Fall 2011 semester.