Virginia G. Piper Center for Creative Writing

Originally the President’s House

As the home of the university president, it is significant for its association with presidents Matthews and Gammage, the two most important leaders of this institution of higher education. Arthur Matthews was principal from 1900 to 1930 and President Emeritus for 12 more years. Grady Gammage was president through the 1940s and 1950s, and was responsible for guiding the post-World War II growth which culminated in the Teachers College becoming Arizona State University. The house was also associated with territorial architect James Creighton, who designed the original Territorial Normal School (demolished). This house is the only remaining campus building associated with Creighton. The building was the president’s residence until 1959, following the death of University President Grady Gammage.

The President’s House is significant as the most intact building over 50 years old on the ASU campus. The high style detailing of this Colonial Revival house makes it one of the best examples of this style in Tempe. The entire building has undergone restoration/rehabilitation treatment, completed in April 2005. The work included restoring the front porch and roof configuration, and repair of exterior wood windows, screens, wood soffits and trim. The exterior brickwork has been cleaned and re-pointed. The building interiors for the most part are original with minor alterations to accommodate ADA accessibility standards. Wood floors have been repaired, patched and refinished and entry detail and surround to the former living room has been restored.