The English Classroom

Modest doubt is called the beacon of the wise.
William Shakespeare (1564-1616) English dramatist, poet
In "Correct Quotes for DOS," WordStar International, 1991

    The Tudor-Gothic architecture and formal bench arrangement of the English classroom was inspired by the London House of Commons. This room reflects the unifying cultural heritage of all United States citizens: English language and law.

    This room contains more original material salvaged from the House of Commons (destroyed by bombs in 1941) than any other place in the world. Large portions of the linenfold paneling, the fireplace from the Aye Lobby bearing the monogram of Queen Victoria, stone brackets carved in Tudor rose design -- all formerly graced the London edifice. Sir Alfred Bossom, MP, Chairman of the English Room Committee in London, selected these items from the room.

    A brick from Number 10 Downing Street is the room's cornerstone. Near the bay are portraits of William Pitt, Earl of Chatham, for whom Pittsburgh was named, and Andrew W. Mellon, alumnus of the University of Pittsburgh, who served as United States Ambassador to the Court of St. James's. The windows bear stained-glass coats of arms representing English towns and cities, universities, historic personages, and the Houses of Parliament.

    Largest of the Nationality Rooms, this area combines oak benches, tables, and chairs augmented by Elizabethan, Jacobean, and House of Commons furnishings. Over the fireplace a quotation from Shakespeare's The Tragedy of King Richard II, carved in oak, reminds us of the rich literary legacy American inherited from England.