All the attention to historic detail will not, thankfully, recreate the atmosphere of Encina in its first two decades, when student high jinks ran from annoying pranks to outright vandalism and violence. Encina's long, wide halls and cavernous stairwells encouraged student rambunctiousness. Throwing things into the lobby, from trays full of dishes to heavy furniture, became a favorite game. Cornell's former president, Andrew D. White, stayed in Encina during a spring 1892 lecture series. For a family hotel it is perfect . . .
Long halls encourage too much mischief.
The administration responded to the growing turmoil with tighter management. It assigned student monitors in 1896, and eventually watchmen were put on patrol. But trouble persisted. As frosh-soph rivalry developed, so did hazing. Another was evicted for smashing furniture but came back one night to stir up trouble.