The map of Madison is dominated by two topographical features: the hill on which the State Capitol building was constructed, and her sister hill to the east on which the state university was founded. The plan for the University of Wisconsin-Madison was originally envisioned in 1850 and was comprised of five buildings.

The Bascom Hill Historic District, nominated to the National Register in 1974, now includes 37 structures and properties which surround what was once known as “College Hill.” This district contains the five oldest buildings which were built for the university including Bascom Hall, North and South Halls, the Assembly and Library Hall, and the Mining Engineering and Heating Station.

The campus continued to expand after the original plan for the university was realized, and the Bascom Hill Historic District has grown to include those sites that are most associated with campus life, such as the Armory and Gymnasium building, known popularly as the Red Gym, and the Memorial Union and Terrace. Bascom Hall itself with its tree-lined hill is UW-Madison’s most enduring symbol. The Bascom Hill Historic District represents the most historic cluster of institutional buildings in Wisconsin. More importantly, its sensitive mix of urban and natural spaces forms a memorable and coherent district.