One incredible shock was waiting for me this trip. At the end of this walkway, where now only an empty field stands, Spruance Hall was gone! It was damaged beyond repair during a tornado, December 2006 and tore down September 2007.

Some of my fondest memories from Anime Express took place in this building. Below is a tribute to this grand old hall to celebrate and enshrine those precious moments.

Anime Express 1998 - Although this was the second convention for Anime Express, this was the very first contest as there were not enough contestants, maybe none at all, the first year.

Anime Express 2000 - There was no convention in 1999, so we were all happy to see it return the next year.

The amazing and unique aspect about Spruance Hall was the open area in the center that allowed attendees to sit around in a casual mood while the contestants walked among them.

Anime Express 2001 - Ellissa-chan from Cosplay Lab makes her debut as Sailor Saturn.

Anime Express 2002 - Steve Bennett first introduces the name of "Cosplay in the Round" to describe the unique concept of Anime Express' costume contest. This was only possible due to the particular design of Spruance Hall.

Anime Express 2003 - Anime Sushi joins the convention this year to run the contest. Due to the formalities introduced, many contestants from previous years were left on the sidelines.

This also marks the last time the contest is held in Spruance Hall. Starting the next year, 2004, the contest would be moved to the student center to accommodate the much larger audience. Fortunately, it would continue to preserve the "Cosplay in the Round" format.

Farewell, Spruance Hall. I will forever remember you fondly.