By Kelley Bozeman

Lee and Patsy Todd, at right, dedicate the Maxwell Place historical marker with members of the class of 2000.

UK bought the Italianate home in 1917 as the president's official residence. Frank L. McVey was the first UK president to live in the home, where each UK president since has resided.

April 8, 2002 (Lexington, Ky.) -- The class of 2000 will add its special touch to the University of Kentucky today. A historical marker will be donated to the university to mark Maxwell Place, the traditional UK president's home. UK President Lee T. Todd, Jr. and first lady Pasty Todd will be on hand as the marker is dedicated at Maxwell Place at 1:30 p.m. April 8.

The home was built in 1870-72 by Dennis Mulligan for his son, Judge James H. Mulligan, and named for nearby Maxwell Springs. UK bought the Italianate home in 1917 as the president's official residence. Frank L. McVey was the first UK president to live in the home, where each UK president since has resided.

The UK Student Development Council began the Historical Marker and Academic Scholarship Program in 1994 with the assistance of the Kentucky Historical Society. The council's Senior Challenge raises funds for the marker program to get seniors involved with giving back to the university. Money remaining after marker expenses is applied to student scholarships.

"The markers add a special dimension to the buildings we pass each day," said Mandy Hellerman, 2001-2002 president of the Student Development Council. "Knowing their history enriches the campus and shows us all that there is a special history at UK that we are helping to preserve and perpetuate."