Thirteen years after the opening and settlement of the Unassigned Lands in Oklahoma, Banker James Kivlehen made the decision to construct a residence in the burgeoning town of Edmond. After two years of construction, precisely on December 26, 1904, he wed Mattie. Nearly three years later, on December 3, 1907, they celebrated the birth of their singular child, a daughter named Colleen.

Due to the manual cutting of every piece of wood, the house was not finished until 1910, a span of eight years since the commencement of construction. James, Mattie, and young Colleen relocated to what was referred to as “one of the largest residences in Edmond” by the local newspaper.

Over time, Mr. Kivlehen actively engaged with the community and local governance. In 1917, he assumed the role of the 16th postmaster, held the position of Edmond’s City Treasurer for 18 years, served on the City Commissioner’s board, and was involved with the Chamber of Commerce. James also took on the role of President within the Central State University Alumni Association, now known as UCO. He passed away in his home in 1957.