One Circle Drive
One Circle Drive is a special use facility, offering an elegant home styled venue. Managed by Public Partnership & Outreach and authorized by the Provost & Executive Vice President in support of faculty collaboration, hosting of visiting scholars, community engagement and special events. Formerly the campus home of university leaders, the current facility is the second presidential built on the Texas A&M campus. The first, built in 1893, was destroyed by fire on January 26, 1963. Interestingly, almost all of the furniture on the first floor was saved, some of which is used in the home today. The current home was built in 1965 in the Georgian Colonial style, at a cost of $60,000. It features a combination of elegance and informality. It was planned with two purposes: to serve as the presidential residence with facilities for official duties and functions, and to meet the needs of the private life of the presidential family. President Rudder liked to joke that the home was the "best bargain the State of Texas ever had." The architect and builder were Aggies. Much of the home was donated by former students and other friends of Texas A&M. Concrete and plumbing were furnished by Aggies, along with doors, windows and design services for the home's interior. Even the bricks, handmade in Hearne, were recycled from a demolished science hall on campus. Former student Jean Donaho decorated the home at no charge. Inside, high ceilings, wooden floors and antique-style moldings create a roomy yet comfortable environment. The entryway is dominated by an impressive white marble hallway and an unobstructed view of the window wall at the back of the home. The first floor can accommodate official functions nicely, with a formal dining room, a 600 square foot living room, a more informal, wood-beamed family room and a large kitchen. The private living quarters are upstairs. It's fascinating to realize that this residence was home to Earl and Margaret Rudder from 1965-1970; Bob and Becky Gates from 2002-2006; and Bowen and Karin Loftin from 2009-2013.In 2015 the residence was converted to One Circle Drive-Texas A&M as a special event venue. Information and reservation request form are available at http://ppo.tamu.edu/venues