Benson made a profound difference in Oregon history. John Tess is the Benson restoration project manager. Brian Chase, PSU's facilities manager, said the university will use the historic house for alumni and foundation associations and maintain the house in perpetuity. John Maranadas owned the Benson House, the adjoining Hochapfel House , and the property. The fate of the Hochapfel house is still unknown.
Time is of the essence.
Friends of The Simon Benson House is raising the much needed funds to move this historic home onto the PSU campus and will house the PSU Alumni Association with meeting space available to the general public. There will be a visitor center on the first floor for PSU students, faculty and alumni. A portion of the first floor will house a permanent exhibit honoring Simon Benson, a pioneer timberman and philanthopist.