President's Residence
Since the early 1920s, the lives of Kansas State University's presidents, both public and private, have come together at 100 Wilson Court.
Children have joyfully explored the home's halls and future U.S. presidents have rested under its roof. The presidential home, steeped in history, is not merely a relic but a site where university history continues to unfold.
Constructed in 1923, the original three-story English country-style house, crafted from native limestone at a cost of $31,000, stands as a testament to the vision of Mrs. Mehitable Calef Coppenhagen Wilson. Her bequest funded the construction of the Residence in dedication to her late husband Davies Wilson, a key figure in the founding of Manhattan and instrumental in establishing Kansas State University in the city.
Designed by Cecil Baker, former head of K-State's Department of Architecture, the house was intended to exude a familial ambiance while seamlessly blending with other campus structures.
The inaugural residents were William Jardine, K-State’s seventh president, and his family. Since then, house has been home to seven subsequent K-State presidents and their families, including: Francis Farrell, Milton Eisenhower, James McCain, Duane Acker, Jon Wefald, Kirk Schulz, Richard Myers and Richard Linton.
Before the construction of 100 Wilson Court, K-State presidents resided in various locations. In 1866, President Denison lived off campus in a house that sat on what is the center of campus, as did President Anderson until 1875 and President Fairchild until 1885. President Fairchild then moved to the second house that stood where Holton Hall now resides, until it was struck by lightning ten years later and burned down.
Between 1895 and 1923, university presidents dwelled in private, off-campus homes. This era included Presidents Fairchild, Will, Nichols, Waters and Jardine.
The interior of the current home has evolved over the years to meet the residents' needs and reflect the preferences of each presidential family. Renovations by the Wefalds in 1998 and the Schulzes in 2016 enhanced the residence's functionality and aesthetics. The Myerses dedicated a second-floor bedroom to General Dwight D. Eisenhower in 2019, commemorating his historical ties to the residences from his many stays when visiting his brother, ninth Kansas State University President Milton Eisenhower.
In 2023, the Lintons opened up the dining room into the back porch, creating a larger space for hosting dinners and receptions at the Residence.
Beyond being the residence of the university's president, 100 Wilson Court has welcomed dignitaries, celebrities, and notable figures, including comedian Red Skelton, author Truman Capote, animal behavioralist Temple Grandin and passionate K-State alumni. Throughout its existence, the house has hosted K-State seniors' graduation celebrations and even served as a classroom. During President Acker's tenure, the house temporarily accommodated students due to a shortage of on-campus housing.
The President’s Residence has transcended its role as a mere dwelling for the chief executive and their family. With its limestone rock siding and white-trimmed windows, the residence has become an enduring source of pride for the campus community for nearly a century.
Mailing Address:
100 Wilson Court, Manhattan, KS 66502