Rez Quad

The Rez Quad is a quadrangle at Tufts University in Medford, Massachusetts. Although often thought to stand for "Residential Quad," the term "Rez" actually refers to a reservoir that stood on the site until 1947.

The Rez Quad was in fact an extension of the large Academic Quad until Olin Hall was constructed in 1991, cutting the residential area off the academic area. [ [http://www.tufts.edu/home/timeline/ Historical Timeline - Tufts University] ] The Rez Quad is bordered by Olin, Houston Hall, Carmichael Hall, Miller Hall, and the Cabot Intercultural Center, home of the Fletcher School.

History

A large brick-lined reservoir was built on the site in 1860-1863 as an emergency water supply for Charlestown, which had just suffered a "disastrous" fire. When the "Rez" was finally leveled in 1947, its brick lining and iron fence were utilized elsewhere on campus, such as in the rooftop terraces of the Wessell Library. [ [http://www.tufts.edu/home/timeline/ Historical Timeline - Tufts University] ]

Traditions

The Rez Quad is the site of several annual traditions, including the Naked Quad Run and the Tuftonia's Day fireworks on the night before Spring Fling.

References