Governor and First Lady Host Former First Families in Newly Restored Governor’s Mansion

Gov. Rick Perry and First Lady Anita Perry hosted a luncheon and tour for former Texas first families at the newly-restored Governor's Mansion. This was the first official event held at the Governor's Mansion since the massive restoration project was completed in July.

"The very first social event held in the mansion took place in August of 1856, when Gov. and Mrs. Pease hosted a levee to announce the completion of the newly built governor's residence," First Lady Anita Perry said. "Now, 156 years later, we're excited to welcome former first families back to the mansion to celebrate the restoration of this grand house, which stands once again as a symbol of our state's proud legacy."

First families attending the luncheon included former Gov. Mark White and First Lady Linda Gale White, and children and family members of former governors Connally, Jester, Daniel, Shivers, Briscoe, Moody, Richards and Smith.

Gov. and Mrs. Perry announced the completion of the Governor's Mansion restoration project in July. Following an arsonist attack in 2008, the Texas Governor's Mansion underwent a complete restoration, including a new roof, repairs to the exterior masonry, restoration of the columns and porches, renovations to the kitchen, and the installation of a new geoexchange system to provide more energy efficient heating and cooling. Private funds were used to pay for an addition to the west side, restoration of historical features, improved handicap accessibility, and the completion of landscaping and historical documentation.

View more information about the Governor's Mansion Restoration Project and the History of the Governor's Mansion.