He was facing a new problem of his own devising. His remarkable success in improving the College's reputation had attracted more -- and more affluent -- students to Princeton. The enrollment swelled, pressuring the already crowded dorms.

To provide sufficient and appropriate housing for these students, McCosh built what was then the world's most luxurious college dormitory -- Witherspoon Hall.

Designed by Potter, Witherspoon offered students magnificent accommodations according to the standards of the time, with waterclosets on every floor and other modern conveniences.