[1] The building was constructed in 1914–1915 from plans submitted by Oregon State Architect William C. Knighton in the American Renaissance style.

[2] Johnson Hall, when it was constructed in 1915, was originally designed to house administrative offices and other campus services just like it still does today.

In its beginnings, Johnson Hall housed the Guild Theater, major department offices, classrooms and a collections exhibit.

Eugene police, backed by Lane County sheriff's deputies, entered the building from the front and rear doors.

After this, chaos erupted at the south entrance of the building while a group of protesters staged a sit-down around the police vans.

Through the years the interior of the building has had some renovations but all in all it still retains its original design very well (minus the Guild Theater).

[4] Ellis F. Lawrence, the university's major architect was involved with parts of the design for Johnson Hall in addition to Knighton.

[8] In 1978 Johnson Hall was featured in the American comedy film National Lampoon's Animal House, directed by John Landis.