The Millsaps Bowl

The Millsaps Bowl, located in the center of campus, is at the heart of student life. Many events take place here, including a colorful MultiCultural Festival, annual Commencement ceremonies, and Homecoming activities. Students often congregate in the Bowl to study, socialize, and play intramural sports. In addition, the Bowl is the scene of activities fairs, open-air bazaars, and warm-weather picnics planned by Millsaps Dining Services.

The Bowl is also the home of the Millsaps Potted Oak. Quite a few visitors wonder why the large oak tree in front of the Campbell College Center is submerged in a massive brick and cement flower pot. According to Dr. Ross H. Moore, a graduate of Millsaps and a professor of history, the answer is simple. When the student union was being built, the irregular contour of the land had to undergo quite a bit of leveling. A great deal of earth had to be moved into what was then known as "Sullivan's Hollow" before construction could even begin.  However, to pile such large quantities of dirt around the trunk of the old water oak surely would have killed it. To remedy the situation, a brick and cement pot topped with a metal grating was built around the base of the tree. Over the years, various objects and small animals have been dropped and trapped beneath the grating, including an angry and difficult-to-remove dog and a number of ducks. Nevertheless, the oak is still thriving after many years in its container. This shady location has built-in seats and is a popular place for students to congregate.

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