Hailey
In the heart of Emporia, Kansas, stands one of the city’s most famous landmarks – the Gufler Mansion, also known as “Emporia’s Mansion.” This grand home has been admired for over a century, and now it has new caretakers.
Dr. Benjamin Kohl and Deborah Kohl, who first fell in love with the mansion as young students at Emporia State University, have finally made their dream come true by becoming the stewards of this iconic property.
This story is more than just about a house – it is about history, love, and community. Let’s explore the journey of the Kohls, the history of the mansion, and what the future holds for this remarkable place.
A College Dream That Came True
Back in 1992, when Benjamin and Deborah were still students, they would often walk near the mansion during their dates. Each time, Deborah admired the house and whispered her wish to live there one day. Nearly three decades later, that dream became reality.
The sale of the mansion was recently finalized, transferring ownership from Brad and Susan Cochennet to the Kohls. For Deborah, it felt like destiny:
“Walking through the doors, it feels like this is exactly where we were always meant to be,” she said.
A Mansion with Rich History
The Gufler Mansion was built in 1915 by Albert Gufler. With its elegant design and massive size, it quickly became known as Emporia’s most iconic home.
Features of the Mansion
- Three living rooms
- Two sunrooms
- Three kitchens
- Two dens
- Multiple bedrooms
- Laundry room
- Swimming pool (now turned into a sunken garden)
- Carriage house
- Brick-lined driveway
Over the years, the mansion has hosted countless visitors, events, and celebrations. The Cochennets turned it into a popular bed and breakfast as well as an event venue, ensuring the house stayed alive in the community’s memory.
Business Before Personal
The Kohls purchased the mansion not as a private home but through their company, Kohl Enterprises Corporation. This means they do not live in the mansion themselves. Instead, it is managed by a mansion manager and staff, who take care of guests and events.
Benjamin explained:
“One of the rules of the corporation is that the owners cannot live on the property. We are the stewards, not residents.”
This decision ensures the mansion remains open to the community, not just a private residence.
Rooted in Community Spirit
The Kohls want the Gufler Mansion to be more than a building – they want it to be a community hub. Their goal is to make the mansion a resource for weddings, reunions, corporate retreats, and cultural events.
They are already working with:
- Emporia Chamber of Commerce
- Emporia Main Street
- Local restaurants
- Emporia State University
Benjamin shared his vision:
“The Gufler Mansion belongs to Emporia. We are just the caretakers.”
Future of the Gufler Mansion
The couple has promised to honor all current bookings and events while also planning to expand future offerings. Visitors can look forward to:
- Hosting weddings in a historic and romantic setting.
- Organizing family reunions in a spacious and welcoming environment.
- Providing corporate retreats in a peaceful atmosphere.
- Serving as a bed and breakfast for travelers.
Deborah added:
“It feels heartwarming when people reach out, excited to plan their events here. We’re ready to welcome them.”
Gufler Mansion Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Built Year | 1915 by Albert Gufler |
| Nickname | “Emporia’s Mansion” |
| Rooms | 3 living rooms, 2 sunrooms, 3 kitchens, multiple bedrooms |
| Special Features | Swimming pool (now sunken garden), carriage house |
| Current Use | Bed & Breakfast, Event Venue |
| Current Owners | Dr. Benjamin & Deborah Kohl (Kohl Enterprises) |
| Community Role | Weddings, reunions, corporate events, guest stays |
The story of the Gufler Mansion is one of love, history, and community spirit. What started as a college dream for the Kohls has now become a reality, with the couple taking responsibility for one of Emporia’s greatest treasures.
Their goal is to keep the mansion open to the public while making it a place where memories are created for generations to come.
By keeping the doors of Emporia’s Mansion open, the Kohls are not only preserving its history but also ensuring it continues to serve the community with warmth and hospitality.