In Davis Hall, the stairway to the observatory and platform above the east entrance is connected by a door without any obvious purpose.

The door and platform are present in a photograph from the NIU Regional Archives, taken for an informational packet on the installment of the telescope in 1965. Also, a photograph in the informational packet from the building’s first occupation in 1943 shows that the architecture of the platform over the east entrance remains unchanged.

The original purpose of the platform was probably intended as a speaking platform for public speeches, Building Maintenance Director Michael Saari said.

Based on buildings he has seen, the platform could have been used like a podium for delivering public speeches due to easy access and a height one story above ground, Saari said.

“It does appear a little odd because you have a small opening with a door,” he said. “If you’re not familiar with that purpose, it might seem out of place.”

The floor of the platform is covered in gravel and only has enough space for a few people to stand, as can be seen from inside Davis Hall.

NIU staff meteorologist Gil Sebenste, whose office is located near the door, said he previously had asked what the purpose of the door is.

“I’ve never seen anyone use it,” Sebenste said.

Currently, the door offers convenient access to check the building for surface deterioration and other maintenance purposes, Saari said. Access doors in locations without obvious purposes are often built in during construction to serve both maintenance purposes and inspection purposes, he said.

Because of the height and open nature of the platform, possible safety concerns could arise from people using the platform without being careful.

However, the door to the platform is locked, so it would be difficult for anyone to access the balcony, Sebenste said.