KOKOMO, Ind. — For Indiana University Kokomo’s first 18 years, the Seiberling Mansion served as its campus, providing access to college education for the people of north central Indiana.
While it moved to the current site on South Washington Street in 1965, the humble beginnings in a former residence have never been forgotten.
Jan Halperin, vice chancellor for university advancement, invites those former students, faculty, and staff to attend a September 16 celebration of that era, as campus leaders place a historical marker at the mansion. The commemoration is part of IU’s Bicentennial, and IU Kokomo’s 75th anniversary.
The success and growth we are experiencing today began in the classrooms of the Seiberling Mansion,” she said. “We look forward to meeting our alumni from those days, hearing their stories, and celebrating the role they played in our history.”
The Seiberling Mansion housed the IU Kokomo Extension Center from 1947 to 1965. It was constructed in 1890 for industrialist Monroe Seiberling, and purchased by IU in 1946. The university leased it to Howard County in 1971, for the Howard County Historical Society to use as a museum. The university retained ownership until 1997.
The historical marker, created from a boulder, will be dedicated during a ceremony at 1:30 p.m. Monday, September 16 at the mansion, 1220 W. Sycamore St.
Chancellor Susan Sciame-Giesecke and Dave Broman, executive director of the Howard County Historical Society, will both greet guests during the presentation, while Sarah Heath, associate professor of history, will share historic background of the Queen Anne/Romanesque Revival-style building.
Free tours, as well as a reception, will follow the marker’s unveiling.
Those planning to attend may RSVP korsvp@iuk.edu or call Michelle Rivers at 765-455-9485.
For information about IU Kokomo’s 75th anniversary celebration, including a calendar of events, go to 75years.iuk.edu
Indiana University was founded on Jan. 20, 1820, making it one of the oldest public universities in the nation. To celebrate its bicentennial, IU has developed a multiyear, multicampus program that will recognize and chronicle IU history, showcase the university's significant contributions to the world and set a course for the next century. For more information about the IU Bicentennial program, visit 200.iu.edu.
Indiana University Kokomo celebrates 75 years as north central Indiana’s choice for higher education.