[1] Davis Paschall, the College President at the time, wanted to build a more elaborate bridge than the existing plain, unpainted one.
For a short time, the spot was considered as the site for a new library, but this was ultimately rejected.
[1] On a mounted plaque near the bridge is a quote by Paschall to commemorate Crim Dell's dedication on May 7, 1966 (see picture).
It reads: …that one may walk in beauty, discover the serenity of the quiet moment, and dispel the shadows.The Crim Dell bridge and pond are at the center of several campus myths and traditions.
These comprise jumping the wall of the Governor's Palace in Colonial Williamsburg after hours, streaking through the Sunken Garden, and swimming in Crim Dell.