[2] From 1916 to about 1936 the structure was used as a "practice house" for domestic science instruction and student housing at nearby William Penn College.

It is its association with the college in the context of the Quaker testimony in Oskaloosa that makes this house historic.

[2] The name "Spurgin Residence" was used by the college during its period of significance.

It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1996.

This article about a property in Mahaska County, Iowa on the National Register of Historic Places is a stub.