As we continue our series on the history of the buildings here at NW, there is one building that everyone on campus knows very well. The Cafeteria on campus has taken many shapes throughout the history of this college and will continue to be a facility that every student will continue to use those from the past, present, and future. This vital part of the college experience has taken on several different forms around campus.
Since NW was founded in 1882, there has always been a cafeteria. From when it was a two year university to when it became a four year university, there has always been a place for students to eat here on campus. The very first building that ever housed the NW cafeteria was none other than Zwemer Hall. Since NW started as such a small establishment, Zwemer was able to be used as the cafeteria from the mid 1880’s to the 1920’s.
The next building change for the cafeteria happened when a strange split occurred in the 1930’s to the 1960’s. Each residence hall had its own version of a dining situation. The intention with the multiple locations was to be able to supply the growing population of the student body efficiently. Then with the ever growing campus, there are several conversations about building a building solely for the whole campus to use and come together as a place to form a community with all those in the student body.
In the 1970’s the new cafeteria was built along with Fern Smith Hall. This new cafeteria was now built with a buffet style of dining and this would continue to be the norm until today. This version of the cafeteria was used throughout the late 20th century and then would be used until the early 2000’s. Then thanks to a generous donation, the cafeteria was given a make over.
In the early 2000’s the cafeteria was given a remodel. The name was changed to the Dewitt Cafeteria and was officially reopened. At its current location, it has been attached to the dormitory of Fern Smith Hall and has been this way since. The model that we know today has been and will continue to be used.
Today’s main dining facility is the DeWitt Cafeteria, a modern building offering buffet‑style meals, international cuisine, and dietary‑friendly options. It represents the culmination of decades of cafeteria development, blending practicality with community life. Even though the cafeteria had taken on many different forms it has truly been a crucial part of this place at NW.
“Students and visitors generally describe Northwestern College’s food as varied, customizable, and community‑focused.” one source said. “The DeWitt Cafeteria offers homestyle meals, international flavors, and dietary‑friendly options, while also being able to provide casual favorites like burgers, pizza, and much more.”
The cafeteria has become a great community space for those at NW who come from many different places to all come to this place, whether that be from studying, practice, as well as rehearsal. There are only a few places where everyone on campus can come together and in a community setting. When asked about one of the best parts of the cafeteria popular answers included, “Stacy’s Line” and “Warm cookie Wednesday.” It is many little things like this that make the NW cafeteria what it is today.
