The deed has been signed. Closing has happened. And Emporia’s Gufler Mansion is officially into its latest chapter of operations.
Dr Benjamin and Deborah Kohl, both Emporia State alums, have purchased the historic mansion from longtime owners Brad and Susan Cochennet. Deborah Kohl says she’s excited for what’s to come.
Crediting the Cochennets for their work, Dr Benjamin Kohl says he wants to see guests from the immediate Emporia — and well beyond.
The mansion went on the market in May 2024 as the Cochennets had plans to move to Texas so the couple could take care of Susan Cochennet’s mother at the time. A few months later and after discussions with several potential owners, the Cochennets decided to maintain ownership. The Cochennets had owned the Gufler since 2016 and initially bought the home — with 12 beds and 8.5 baths — so there could be an all-encompassing space for Brad Cochennet’s mother as she battled Alzheimer’s Disease.
The Kohls attended ESU in the 1990s and say they have always been attracted to the mansion after attending several campus functions during their time as students. Now living in Manhattan — Dr Kohl as the administrator of the Riley County Historical Society and Deborah Kohl as a strategic specialist for K-State Research and Extension — the couple says there will be a live-in bed-and-breakfast manager as they take over.
Residents with questions or wishing to book the Gufler can email info@guflermansion.com or call 620-983-6642.
