Own a Piece of UM History

Constructed in 1928, the University of Montana President’s residence at 1325 Gerald Avenue offers a rare opportunity to own a distinguished piece of Missoula history, a striking Italian Renaissance home and a landmark within the University Area Historic District. With its hipped and gabled roofs, stucco and uncut stone exterior walls, and three open porches trimmed with cast iron railings, the home carries an enduring elegance and stands out as one of Missoula’s most iconic residences. Inside, more than 7,300 square feet unfold across three levels and a partially finished attic and basement, offering both grandeur and function. The main floor opens with a tiled foyer and sweeping staircase, leading into a formal living room, parlor, and library, each anchored by fireplaces that speak to the craftsmanship of the era. A formal dining room and large kitchen with informal dining space set the stage for gatherings, while a half bath and multiple sitting areas complete the floor. Upstairs, six bedrooms feature a mix of private baths, Jack-and-Jill layouts, and additional fireplaces. A sitting room and den expand the living space, while the attic and basement provide flexibility for storage or future use. The home features a spacious library with a capacity for some 20,000 volumes, extensive and decoratively-carved paneling of Philippine mahogany, and Holland tiles still in place in two of the home’s six baths. Handcrafted architectural details are found throughout, from fixed, casement, and double-hung windows, many with stained glass and decorative shutters, to arched and round stone-framed designs that elevate the home’s refined aesthetic. The property sits on a generous 0.795-acre lot, substantially larger than most in the University District, and is framed by mature trees, decorative shrubbery, and wrought iron fencing. It includes a spacious adjacent vacant lot with subdivision potential, offering flexibility for future development or investment. A detached three-car garage, added in the 1950s, blends seamlessly with the grounds, while dual access from Gerald and Keith Avenues adds convenience to its stately setting. From 1974 to 2025, this sixteen-room residence served as the official home of the University of Montana president, hosting countless university and community events and cementing its place as one of Missoula’s most iconic properties. Beyond its walls, the location offers an ideal vantage point to embrace all that Missoula has to offer, from quiet, tree-lined streets and proximity to the University campus to the vibrancy of downtown just minutes away. 1325 Gerald Avenue represents more than a residence. It is a unique opportunity to own a significant piece of Missoula and University of Montana history, blending architectural pedigree with an unmatched sense of place in one of the city’s most historic neighborhoods.