In January of 1913, the state acquired about 75 acres of farmland to begin construction of the new campus. John J. Nelligan, owner of Glen Esk, had bought out four of his neighbors and sold the combined lots to the state.
Over the next two years, the state constructed three buildings: the Administration Building which held all offices and classrooms, Newell Hall which was the first dormitory and exclusively for women, and the Power Plant which continues to supply the campus over 100 years later.
The first classes to be held at the new location began in September 1915.