Esslinger Hall, first built in 1936, has seen a number of stages during its campus life. Originally known as the "PE Building," the building was destroyed by a fire in May 1970 and rebuilt a year later. In the mid-1970s it was named in honor of A.A. Esslinger, dean of the College of Health, Physical Education, Parks, and Recreation from 1953 through 1973. In fall 1999 Esslinger received a facelift and a new neighbor, the Student Recreation Center. The $18.4 million project renovated parts of Esslinger and built a new athletic center for students, complete with a three-court gymnasium, running track, strength and conditioning center, indoor rock climbing wall, athletic training center, and a lobby, lounge, and juice bar.