For more than a century, the stately Eastcliff residence high atop the banks of the Mississippi River has been a St. Paul landmark, and for more than 60 years it has served as the official residence of the University of Minnesota president.

For groups or organizations who would like to entertain at Eastcliff, please review the guidelines below. To inquire about the President hosting your event at Eastcliff, please email our staff.

History of Eastcliff

Built in 1922 for local lumber magnate Edward Brooks, the home was designed by architect C. H. Johnston Sr. The two-story, 20-room house reflects the family’s taste, and the Brooks lumber heritage is evident throughout the home. Walnut, ash, cherry, cypress, knotty pine and bleached oak were used in the construction and detailing; the unusually thick and wide, white clapboard siding was custom cut; and nine fireplaces allowed the Brooks family to burn wood from their lumberyards to heat their home.

The family began calling their house Eastcliff — a name fondly used to this day — because of its perch atop the eastern cliffs of the Mississippi River. Eastcliff occupies approximately two acres. A carriage house, summer house, pool and terraces enrich the property and provide additional vantage points from which to appreciate the home’s beauty. 

In 1958, the Brooks family graciously donated the home to the University of Minnesota, where it has served as a presidential residence and much more. Eastcliff has been a gathering place for countless official University of Minnesota functions over the years. Faculty and students in design and architecture have assisted with renovations and improvements for the home, and the interior displays artwork from the University’s museum collections. Horticulture students have designed and cared for native perennials, specimen plants and exotic trees in the gardens.

In 2000, in recognition as one of the finest examples of 1920s Colonial Revival architecture, Eastcliff was placed on the National Register of Historic Places. In July 2024, the University of Minnesota Board of Regents voted to retain the historic Eastcliff residence, but shift much of the operating and capital costs for the property to private philanthropy funding through the University of Minnesota Foundation.

The latest renovation of Eastcliff began in early 2025. It addressed deferred maintenance, replaced inefficient and outdated components and enhanced the usability and security of the property. The renovation was completed in early December 2025.