Photograph of the Historic Presidents Cottage on Arizona State University
The Piper Writers House
Originally constructed in 1907, the Piper Writers House served as a home for the president of Arizona State University--Arthur John Matthews (1904-30), Ralph W. Swetman (1930-1933), and Grady Gammage (1933-59)--until it became the Alumni House and Alumni Executive Office (1961-72) and, most recently, the University Archives (1972-95).
In 2005, the building underwent extensive renovations, including the addition of a back patio and several surrounding gardens, to house the newly established Virginia G. Piper Center for Creative Writing.
Today, the house serves as an office for staff, a classroom for creative writing students and community members, and a gathering space for readings, receptions, and other events.
Along with University Club and Old Main, the Piper Writers House is one of the last remaining historic buildings on the Tempe campus. The house is also one of the last buildings designed by territorial architect James Creighton, who designed the original Arizona State University Normal School.
For more information about the Piper Writers House, view the house's record on the National Register of Historic Places.
For directions, parking, and other information about getting here, you can visit our getting here page.
You can make a reservation to use the Piper House for your event. Click the button below and email Christie Swedbergh at cswedber@asu.edu once form has been submitted.