At the turn of the 20th century the number of students attending state universities increased far more than those attending church-sponsored colleges. Outreach missions were established near campuses because religious instruction was prohibited at the state institutions. The Presbyterian Synod of Wisconsin organized the "Presbyterian Student Union," also called the Pres House by students, to provide a spiritual culture for students at the University of Wisconsin. The union grew rapidly and by 1920 they acquired property on the east end of the University campus. A residential house served as the chapel and clubhouse for the students until membership became too large for the small facility.

In 1930 construction began on a new church and student center. Edward Tough, a Scottish immigrant, designed the building in the English Gothic and Tudor styles. A massive stone tower dominates the front façade of the Pres House. Tracery, pinnacles and an accolade decorate the tower. A polygonal belfry crowns the tower. Stone buttresses with pinnacles further adorn it. Tough served as the Wisconsin State Architect for a number of years and specialized in the design of schools and churches.

The interior includes a chapel, student center, offices, and an apartment to house the pastor and his family. A massive stone fireplace dominates the first floor lounge. The Tudor arched opening is enriched with compound moldings and a tall mantle is decorated with shields and ribbons. Many other embellishments throughout the interior include Tudor roses, acorns and fleur-de-lis, rope molding, tulips, grapes, and leaves.

The focus of the Pres House ranged from student support to national issues and international humanitarian efforts. Today it remains a support center for the religious faith of students.

The Pres House is open during regular hours.