81st Legislature Approves Funds to Restore Historic Texas Governor’s Mansion
AUSTIN - Nearly one year after fire almost destroyed the 153-year-old Texas Governor's Mansion, the 81st Texas Legislature has appropriated $22 million in general revenue funds to restore the historic home.
"I'd like to thank Texas Legislators and the many Texans from all walks of life who have contributed to saving the Texas Governor's Mansion," says First Lady Anita Perry. "We now are able to restore this state treasure, so that future generations can walk the same halls walked by Sam Houston. I'm truly humbled by the outpouring of support I've seen since the fire last year and am thrilled that the citizens of Texas will continue to have a special place to call home."
The two-story Greek Revival house was built in 1856 by master builder Abner Cook. It is the fourth oldest continuously occupied governor's residence in the United States and the oldest governor's mansion west of the Mississippi River.
Officials estimate that the extensive restoration, which could take 24 to 30 months, will cost approximately $22.4 million. Added to the public funds will be donations to the Texas Governor's Mansion Restoration Fund, a 501c3 nonprofit organization founded by the First Lady after the fire. To date, TGMRF donations total more than $3.4 million.
The Mansion was gutted by a fire on June 8, 2008, which started when a still-unidentified man tossed a Molotov cocktail on the front porch. Law enforcement continues its investigation and the state is offering a $50,000 reward for information that can lead authorities to the arsonist. Further questions on the investigation should be directed to the State Fire Marshall's Office.