Plumb Place was originally built in the 1870’s and was called home to Emporia founding father, Preston Plumb and his family. While in Emporia, Preston had many ties to the business community. He started the first newspaper in Emporia, was a cattleman, attorney, and banker. He donated the land and first $500.00 to start Sacred Heart Catholic Church and helped to form what is now Emporia State University. Preston came to Kansas with the civil war movement. He was determined to “keep Kansas free” and ended his military career with the rank of lieutenant-colonel. Due to his popularity with his troops, his career in politics was born. Preston Plumb became a U.S. Senator and died while in office. His body was brought back to the capitol building in Topeka where it laid in state then to Emporia.

Upon Preston’s death, Mrs. Plumb started the massive job of remodeling Plumb Place. She built around the existing home, adding a third floor with ballroom, and the expansive columns on the 6th street side. Carrie became interested in women’s issues and “fighting the noble cause”. So it seemed appropriate that with her death the Plumb heirs donate their childhood home to the YWCA to be used as a home for women. The heirs also donated $20,000 to move the carriage house forward to meet the existing house and to make sleeping rooms.

At over 11,000 square feet, Plumb Place has 3 kitchens, 2 tv lounges, 5 bathrooms, and rooms for 22 residents at a time. Last year, Plumb Place was called home to 63 women. Today the mission of Plumb Place is “assisting women in need by providing safe, affordable housing and opportunities for individual success.”