As part of the post-Civil War Reconstruction, Florida was readmitted to the United States in 1868.

[1] Instead, he chose to accept an appointment as the first president of Iowa State Agricultural College.

Welch felt that Iowa State was a progressive institution and was proud that it allowed women to attend classes.

[2] From 1885 until his death, Welch served as a psychology professor at Iowa State.

During the building's lifetime, Welch has served as classroom space and various department offices.

In 1984, Welch Hall was added to the National Register of Historic Places.