If you caught the first part of the Lair White House edition of Around the Grounds, you already know that the second story of the building houses the Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation (KFF) office. However, this is not your typical office space.
The second story of the Lair White House was not designed with an office space in mind. Rather, the original vision was a comfortable space that could be used for board meetings, networking or entertaining sponsors during the Kansas State Fair.
Thus, the space is cozy and comfortable, more like a home than an office. It even has a kitchenette, living room, and dining room space (that’s somewhat of a conference room space).
In 2021, KFF hired the very first Foundation employee, Executive Director, James Fisher. When that happened, there was no office space for Fisher to work. His first order of business was making the Lair White House operational as an office space.
Over time, the space has continued to fluctuate and change into a more functional space that still serves its original purpose while also fulfilling the needs of an office space. This space has become the headquarters for all things KFF and has seen more employees through its doors as the Foundation continues to grow and change.
Who knows what the future holds for the Lair White House. The Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation continues to grow exponentially, taking on more projects and raising more money every year. What is sure is that the Lair White House will continue to be a pillar of the Kansas State Fairgrounds and a home for the Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation.
Regardless, we can’t wait to share more with you about this beautiful building (did we mention it has a staircase of mystery?) in future editions of Around the Grounds: Lair White House!
Around the Grounds is a new monthly E-Update series that explores the buildings of the Kansas State Fairgrounds. Most buildings have a lot to uncover, so they’ll appear in multiple parts over time. We won’t always cover those parts back-to-back — rather, we’ll move around the Fairgrounds and highlight different buildings along the way. Over time, Around the Grounds will create a growing look at many different spaces — one article at a time.
Join us as we continue to explore the Fairgrounds! Be sure you (and your friends!) are signed up for our First Friday E-Updates to receive future Around the Grounds features straight to your inbox.
About the Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation
The Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation (KFF) is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization. Founded in 2003, KFF’s mission is to further the renovation, construction, preservation and beautification of the Kansas State Fairgrounds with a vision of inspiring excellence and understanding of Kansas agriculture, industry and culture through the Kansas State Fair, activities, educational programs and opportunities. The Foundation exists to enrich the unforgettable memories and traditions people experience only at the Kansas State Fair and at the 500+ events on the Fairgrounds year-round.
