Northwest Missouri State University - Tower Yearbook (Maryville, MO)

Page 13 text:

' ER Gracious living is second nature in the Foster household. jper The nis- tudy reds ime. i»est late, sbe The Lincoln bedroom displays many of the Victorian qualities for which the house is famous This lovely living room is a delight to all guests who visit the Foster home.

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VICTORIAN HOME KEPT ALIVE BY PRESIDENT FOSTER AND HIS FAMILY President and Mrs. Foster relax in their new kitchen. In 1857 land was purchased which was to be used for a nursery, but in 1870 a two-story home was built on the property by Captain Thomas Gaunt. Today, almost a cen- tury later, this home is still liept alive by the warmth and laughter of a modern family. President and Mrs. Robert P. Foster and their two sons, Robert III and Kemp. Before the family could move into the old house, however, some changes had to be made. Original plans for remodeling the kitchen snowballed until the entire house had been redecorated. Kansas City interior designer, Jack Rees, helped make changes in a few doors and windows which gave the new kitchen and dining room a cheerful and bright atmosphere. His and her dressing rooms were made from an upstairs sleeping porch and sitting room. The structure is kept young by the light, dignified decor. Although some of the furniture is rather formal and stiff Victorian, the walls of the parlor, music room and din- ing room are lovely blue-and-white striped wallpaper which is accented by sparkling crystal chandeliers. The home ' s furnishing include a Knabe piano more than 100 years old, Victorian open-back chairs with blue velvet seats, and two transitional Chippendale chairs. Especially charming is the remodeled kitchen which boasts of a range which serves as a room divider, an is- land counter on wheels, laundry facilities behind sliding oak doors, brick-patterned tile on the floors, and a built in buffet. In contrast to this room is Dr. Foster ' s study with its deep blue walls and white window seats and wood paneling. Since the time the renovation was completed, hundreds of enthusiastic visitors have toured the lovely old home. The dwelling is a landmark not only to the Northwest Missouri State College campus, but to all of the state. Its walls echo with history, and its age will always be overcome by its grand dignity.

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Our guides„.through them we attain the knowledge to challenge the future. ' 10