The Mission Hills mansion is a historic centerpiece of Missouri Southern's campus. The property that provided a home for the College, was owned by Mr. and Mrs. Frank C. and Juanita H. Wallower. The mansion was built in approximately 1920 by Lucius P. "Buck" Buchanan, a wealthy mining developer who was also instrumental in founding Joplin Stockyards. Built in a Spanish motif at a time when this architectural style was in vogue, Buchanan's inspiration was reportedly a house he saw in Puerto Rico. The house, with a stucco facade and red-tile roof, has eleven rooms and many novel features, including a 62-foot tunnel that connects the basement with a well room. Early in the College's history the mansion was used for Social Sciences and Communications Department offices. An annex provided classrooms, which are now home for the Learning Center.