Tours of the Texas Governor Mansion
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The Texas Governor’s Mansion is a historic landmark in the Lone Star State. Located in Austin, the mansion has been the official residence of the Texas Governor since 1856. It is the oldest continuously occupied governor’s residence in the United States. The mansion has seen many changes, from the original Greek Revival style to its current Victorian Italianate style.
The mansion has been home to many famous governors, including Sam Houston, Ann Richards, and George W. Bush. It has also been the site of numerous state events, such as the annual Governor’s Ball. The mansion is open for tours, and visitors can explore the grand ballroom, library, and other rooms. The mansion also serves as a museum, with artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of Texas’ history. The Texas Governor Mansion is a must-see destination whether you’re a history buff or just looking for a unique experience.
The Governor’s Mansion was built in 1856 with dignified white columns welcoming all that come. Since 1856, this prestigious historic home has been the official residence of Texas governors and their families. It is the country’s 4th oldest continuously occupied governor’s mansion and the oldest governor’s mansion west of the Mississippi River.
History of the Mansion
The Texas Governor’s Mansion has a long and storied history. It was built in 1856 and served as the home of the Governor of Texas for over 150 years. The mansion was initially built as a private residence for a prominent Texas family but was later donated to the state and became the governor’s official residence.
The mansion has seen many renovations, including a large portico and a grand staircase in the late 19th century. During the Great Depression, the mansion was a shelter for homeless families. In the 1940s, the mansion was extensively renovated and modernized, and it has since become a symbol of Texas history and culture. Today, the mansion is open to the public for tours and is a popular destination for visitors to the state. The Texas Governor’s Mansion is a reminder of the state’s rich history and is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the people of Texas.
Rooms of the Mansion
The Texas Governor Mansion is a stunning example of 19th-century architecture, and its many rooms are a testament to the state’s long and rich history. From the grand entrance hall to the formal dining room, each room is filled with antiques and artwork that evoke the past.
The deep veranda, floor-length windows, and wide hallways provided cooling ventilation in the summer. The square plan of the structure itself placed four main rooms on each floor, two on either side of the broad central hallway. A rear wing held a kitchen and servant’s quarters. This simple two-story design was impressively proportioned with twenty-nine-foot Ionic columns across the front, spanning ceiling heights of sixteen feet downstairs and thirteen feet upstairs.
- The State Reception Room is a popular gathering spot for guests, with its original chandeliers and ornate plasterwork.
- The Library is a cozy spot for reading and reflection and is lined with bookshelves filled with volumes of Texas history.
- The East Room is the largest in the mansion, and it is here that many important meetings and events are held.
- The Red Room is a smaller space, but it is no less grand, with its crimson walls and gilded furniture.
- The Governor’s Study is a quiet workplace decorated with past governors’ portraits.
- The formal dining room is luxurious, with a large table and chairs, perfect for hosting dinner parties.
The mansion has several bedrooms, including the governor’s bedroom, a guest bedroom, and a nursery. Each bedroom is tastefully decorated and features comfortable beds and furniture. The mansion also has a large outdoor patio, perfect for entertaining guests or enjoying the beautiful Texas weather. The Texas Governor’s Mansion is remarkable, and its many rooms are sure to impress. The Mansion also features a grand staircase, a formal garden, and a terrace. Each room of the Texas Governor Mansion is filled with history and charm, making it a truly special place to visit.
Tours
The mansion is open for public tours and is a great way to learn about the state’s rich history and culture. During the tour, visitors can explore the mansion’s many rooms, including the grand foyer, the formal dining room, the library, and the governor’s office. The tour also includes visiting the Governor’s Reception Room, where guests can glimpse the governor’s daily life.
The tour also includes visiting the mansion’s beautiful grounds, which feature a variety of gardens, fountains, and sculptures. After the tour, visitors can also stroll through the nearby Capitol grounds and explore the many monuments and memorials located there. A tour of the Texas Governor’s Mansion is a great way to learn about the state’s history and culture, and it’s sure to be an unforgettable experience.
Events at the Mansion
The mansion hosts various events yearly, from formal receptions to public tours. On the first Saturday of every month, the mansion opens its doors to the public for a free tour. During the tour, visitors can learn about the mansion’s history and view the many artifacts and furnishings that have been preserved over the years. The mansion also hosts special events throughout the year, such as the Governor’s Mansion Holiday Open House, the Governor’s Mansion Garden Party, and the Governor’s Mansion Summer Social. These events are a great way to experience the beauty and history of the mansion and learn more about the state of Texas.
Private Residence
The governor occupies a private second-floor apartment. The other rooms of the Mansion may be seen on public tours; reservations are required one day in advance. Beginning in October of 2007, the mansion was closed for tours indefinitely for extensive deferred maintenance. A building as old as the mansion requires constant and extensive maintenance to keep it in pristine condition as the Governor deserves, as well as the citizens of Texas.
The Mansion is the fourth oldest governor’s residence continuously occupied in the US and the oldest governor’s mansion west of the Mississippi River.
The mansion was damaged in a fire on June 8, 2008, when extensive damage occurred. Funds for the restoration are being gathered to ensure the mansion is repaired with quality. To assist with the funding, you can contact www.texasonline.com or send a check or money order to Texas Governor’s Mansion Restoration Fund, PO Box 12878, Austin, TX 78711-2878. You can get information on the restoration at 866-751-5829.
The beautiful mansion sits on a beautifully landscaped city block near the Capitol building. The building has been designated a National Historic Landmark.
The building is made of buff-colored bricks and was built when the Legislature appropriated $14,500 in 1845.
The history of the families that have lived in the mansion brings smiles to the faces of those that hear about them from the son of Sam Houston, 5-year-old Andrew Jackson Houston, who locked the members of the Legislature in their chamber and hid the key. It took his father telling him he would have Andrew arrested for him to produce the key to let them out finally. Then there was the drama of James Stephen Hogg’s children sliding down the sweeping stair rail. Following his youngest son’s falling off, the Governor hammered tacks down the banister, putting an end to the fun. Visitors may still inspect the filled nail holes.
In 1914 the Mansion received extensive remodeling, with the original kitchen wind demolished and a new addition added to the back of the main house. This included a new family dining room on the main floor and additional living space upstairs. A new enlarged kitchen wing was then built. This basic floor plan remains today.
During September and October, free guided tours of the Texas Governor’s Mansion are available from 2 to 4 pm on select Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays. Visitors can see mementos from previous governors and First Families, portraits, and earliest furniture, such as Stephen F. Austin’s desk and Governor Pease’s sofa.
Texas Governor’s Mansion
1010 Colorado St., Austin, Texas 78701
Phone: 512-463-5516
It’s only an 11-minute walk from Austin’s city center via Congress Ave and W 9th St; optionally, the number 20 and 30 buses from Lavaca/4th drop you off three minutes away, but walking is still faster.
When driving to the Texas Governor’s Mansion, it’s conveniently located near Lavaca and W11th. Having said that, it is a very busy area (especially during peak business hours).
