President's Residence
The President’s Residence, completed in 1954 during the presidency of M.C. Cunningham, is estimated to have cost around $65,000. According to James Forsythe, former professor, and chair of FHSU’s history department, completion of the property was delayed due to several factors. The work was done during the Korean War, so necessary items were unavailable. In addition, a flood control project around FHSU’s campus was underway during the same period. The flood control project was delayed during that time due to a steel strike.
Dr. Forsythe, in his book, “The First 75 years: A History of Fort Hays State University,” available from the Forsyth Library Archives, said the earliest reference to school activities in the newly constructed house was that of a tea reported in the October 21, 1954, Leader. The home economics club hosted a tea for Tessie Agan, acting head of the Household Economics Department at Kansas Agricultural College in Manhattan. The state Home Economics groups held a meeting on campus.
The rock on the building is split greenhorn, which cost $33 per ton (14.64 tons). Froberius Stone Facing of Hays did the work. The Haydite blocks came from the Carter Concrete Block Plan in Russell.
When Dr. John Gustad assumed his role as the sixth president of FHSU in 1969, the residence was updated with cable television, new draperies, and a white living room carpet. During Dr. Gerald Tomanek’s presidency, 1975-1987, the roof was replaced.
Dr. Edward Hammond assumed the presidency in 1987, at which time the kitchen and dining areas of the residence were remodeled. Significant renovations were completed in 2006, when the family room was extended, bathrooms were updated, and extensive trim and finish upgrades were added.
During Mirta Martin’s presidency, remodeling of the main bedroom and basement was completed in 2015. A new entry was added to the basement at that time, along with updated finishes throughout the residence.
In late 2017, during Tisa Mason’s presidency, remodeling of the main bath was completed, as well as new flooring, trims, interior doors, and wall finishes.
Hospitality in the president’s residence continues as Dr. Mason hosts numerous events throughout the year. She welcomes new faculty, students, and community members to the residence with the generous spirit of FHSU’s Tiger Nation.