From Stern we proceed to the original Dickinson College building. West College or "Old West" began construction in 1799 but was destroyed by a fire in 1803. Construction began soon afterward under the architectural design of Benjamin Latrobe, who designed the architectural plans for the National Capitol Building. "Old West" is a registered historical landmark and is Dickinson's oldest standing building. It presently houses the president's office as well as other administrative offices.