Message From Texas First Lady Anita Perry

The Texas Governor’s Mansion suffered significant damage from arson in June 2008.  State leaders, concerned citizens, and preservationists were horrified and saddened by the damage to the historic Texas Governor’s Mansion.  These same Texans vowed to rebuild this grand house, a symbol of Texas pride and an irreplaceable part of our State’s history.  In July 2008, I founded the “Texas Governor’s Mansion Restoration Fund,” a nonprofit organization established to raise money to rebuild this National Historic Landmark.

Our Texas Governor’s Mansion pre-dates the Texas Capitol and is the oldest home for governors in continuous use west of the Mississippi.  Elisha Pease was the first occupant; Sam Houston roamed its halls; Governor Hogg’s children slid down the banister; President McKinley and Will Rogers and many heads of state visited; Wilbert Lee “Pappy” O’Daniel hosted radio shows with his band; Governor Connally recuperated from the gunshot he suffered while riding with President Kennedy in the motorcade; George W. Bush awaited news of the outcome of the 2000 presidential election.  The Texas Governor’s Mansion belongs to all Texans and has been home to 40 governors since 1856.  The Mansion is part of our proud State’s legacy, and the site of these and countless other historic events.

The 81st Texas Legislature appropriated general revenue funds to restore this Texas treasure.  Private funds were raised to restore the best and most historic architectural elements, as well as to ensure our Governor’s Mansion is safe, functional, and historically preserved for at least another 150 years.

Texans can make a difference and are encouraged to make donations - large or small - to restore the Governor’s Mansion to its former grandeur by contributing to the Texas Governor’s Mansion Restoration Fund.  Tax deductible donations may be made securely online at www.TexasGovernorsMansion.org or by sending check or money order to:

Texas Governor’s Mansion Restoration Fund
P.O. Box 12878
Austin, TX 78711-2878. 

Thank you for your support.