WOU Repository

Name of Building: Gentle House

Built: ~1880

Architects & Construction:

     Construction was presumable done by the original owners. There has been extensive remodeling, and an external apartment to rent to students were added, as well as a conference room.

Present Uses:

     It is currently maintained by the university as a conference and special events center. It is also available to be leased for non-school functions. However, the second floor's bedrooms and study are maintained as a museum of the family's antiques. Tours are available by request.

Past Uses:

     It was purchased by Thomas and Carrie Gentle in 1914 with 150 acres of land. It was then donated to the university by Catherine Gentle in 1981.

Extra Information:

• The land was originally settled by John. B. and Emily Smith in 1886.
• The land was once owned by memebers of the Butler Family.
• In 1970, Catherine and Maurice Gentle did an interior restoration project that was finished after the university acquired the property. The remodeling was done on the parlor, living room, dining room, kitchen, and upstairs bedrooms. A conference room was also added.
• Thomas Gentle was a professor at the college and responsible for the creation of the Campus Elementary School.
• The Ghost of Catherine Gentle is said to be roaming the halls changing the thermostats.