The Secret History of WashU
In The Secret History of WashU, host Jeremy Slaten tells the stories of the buildings that once defined the Danforth campus.
In the first episode, Slaten explores Prince Hall, which served as a dormitory and a one-time home of the Olin Business School. Through alumni interviews and archival footage, The Secret History of WashU peeks into the structures of the University’s past.
The second episode explores the history of Mudd and Eliot Halls, which served as the home of the Law School and social sciences, respectively. Featuring interviews of Chancellors Andrew Martin and Mark Wrighton, various alumni and faculty, and rarely seen archival footage, this episode provides a dynamic look into one of the most unique parts of WashU’s history.
The third episode takes a look at the history of the once beloved hub of the South 40, Wohl Center. Featuring an interview with Chancellor Mark Wrighton and various alumni and faculty, rarely-seen archival footage, and gorgeous drone shots, this episode gives viewers a poignant depiction of one of WashU’s most important buildings.
In the second part, the story of the ROTC fires continues as producers Jeremy Slaten and Alan Zhou recount the tumultuous end of the 1969-1970 school year. The aftermath of the fires is also explored, including the story of Howard Mechanic, the second-longest fugitive in American history. The film features an all-new interview with Howard Mechanic, along with various alumni, faculty, and historians who provide insight, as well as drone footage and animation, which sets the scene. The conclusion leaves a lesson for WashU students about protesting and when they can go too far.