Photo Credit: AP
Proposed Governor’s Mansion Addition Rebuffed
New Proposal Expected
January 2010
In response to a chorus of protest from across Texas, on January 15 the State Preservation Board (SPB) withdrew the proposal for a 3,000 sq. ft. addition on the north side of the Governor’s Mansion. The Heritage Society of Austin was the first voice to call for the restoration of this majestic landmark after the disastrous arson fire in June 2008. In fact, we presented the first $10,000 contribution to the First Lady for the Mansion restoration. Because of the value of the integrity of the Mansion, we are in full support of its restoration. However, we could not support the proposed expansion that would violate the 153-year-old profile and frontal view of the Mansion, and would also destroy a beautiful heritage live oak tree.
The Heritage Society mobilized its membership and the preservation community to oppose the plan (read more here). The Heritage Society salutes its members for being on the forefront of the groundswell of opposition to the plan. Our members directly affected the outcome when speaking strongly and clearly in opposition to the unsympathetic expansion through e-mails to decision makers and signing the Heritage Society’s on-line petition.
While the retraction of the north addition concept is good news, all who care about the Mansion should join in maintaining a vigil on the ultimate outcome of this important issue. The SPB has announced that it still intends to explore other ways to meet their stated space concerns for the Mansion. SPB officials indicated they will continue to work closely with the Texas Historical Commission (THC) and Department of Public Safety on design solutions and an alternate proposal. "I look forward to working with Preservation Board officials for a better plan," said THC Executive Director Mark Wolfe.
Moving forward, there will be a two step review process when the SPB issues a new proposal for the Mansion. First, the Antiquities Advisory Board, a citizen advisory committee of the THC comprised of experts in the fields of architecture, archeology and history, will review conceptual plans and make a recommendation on the appropriateness of a proposed addition’s location and size. Final approval on the specific design details will be in the hands of the THC when the SPB submits a formal application for a permit to undertake work on the Mansion. The decision on approval will be issued after the plans are reviewed by the Texas Historical Commissioners, who are 17 citizens appointed by the governor. The agendas for both these meetings will provide opportunity for public comment.
The public response to the initial proposal was clear -- Texans simply don't want the architectural or historic integrity of the Mansion to be destroyed. The Heritage Society will continue to monitor and report developments and will alert its membership to action if needed. We firmly believe that any future proposal to change the mansion in any way should be developed in a public process with provision to allow the people of Texas, who are the true owners of the mansion, to participate in decisions affecting the “People’s House.”
HSA Votes Not to Support Expansion of Governor's Mansion
November 2009
The Heritage Society of Austin has voted not to support plans to build an addition to the Texas Governor’s Mansion, as proposed by the State Preservation Board.
The highest level of designation for preservation in the U.S. is to be designated as a National Historic Landmark. There are two National Historic Landmarks in Austin: the Texas Governor’s Mansion and the State Capitol.
“The Heritage Society of Austin was the first entity to call publicly for full restoration of the Mansion--literally while the embers were still hot from the arsonist’s work, and we were honored to be able to present the first funds to kick-off the fundraising effort to restore the Mansion,” said Mandy Dealey, President of the Heritage Society of Austin.
“Because of the importance of the Governor’s Mansion, the Heritage Society is not in support of the expansion as is currently being proposed,” said Mandy Dealey. “How we as Texans treat the Mansion sets a standard and sends a signal across our state regarding the inherent value of historic landmarks and preservation of our history. The proposed addition would negatively impact the iconic and symbolic frontal view of the Mansion.”
The Board of the Heritage Society has conveyed an offer to work with all concerned to explore other options to meet objectives without compromising the historic integrity of the structure.
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First Lady Anita Perry
Heritage Society Makes First Donation to Restore the Governor's Mansion
July 2008
The Heritage Society of Austin was pleased to present $10,000 to the cause of restoring the Texas Governor's Mansion. This Texas treasure was recently the target of a devastating arson fire.
Contributions from generous and caring individuals from Texas and beyond
immediately began arriving for the fund that the Heritage Society established the day of the fire. These donations along with Heritage Society funds were presented to First Lady Anita Perry on July 15 at a press conference announcing the formation of a non-profit to lead future fundraising efforts.
Heritage Society Reacts
to Tragic Fire
June 2008
As you know, Austin and Texas suffered a tragic blow when an arsonist targeted the Governor’s Mansion in the early morning hours of June 8, 2008. It’s an understatement to say that Texans were shocked, saddened – and angered – when they awoke to see the heavy damage revealed upon daybreak that Sunday morning. The stately Mansion that pre-dates the neighboring Capitol lay charred and smoldering, reduced to a crime scene.
A mere twelve hours after the fire was first reported, the Heritage Society of Austin was engaged, publicly lamenting the loss and rallying Texans for a full and complete restoration. “We’re confident that – regardless of the extent of the damage – Texans will come together in support of returning the Mansion to its original stature and beauty. Where there’s a will there’s a way, and Texans won’t shy away from this challenge,” said HSA President John Donisi in a widely reported statement. HSA President-Elect Julian Read also was on the scene, as was former Gov. Mark White. (Both Donisi and Read have a personal connection to the Mansion, serving as confidants to Governors Ann Richards and John Connally, respectively.) “This is priceless Texas history. I can't imagine any expense that shouldn't be spared to restore it” said White.
And Texans responded – with numerous calls and e-mails to HSA, wanting to assist in any way possible. On Wednesday, June 11, HSA announced an opportunity to donate funds for the Mansion restoration effort to HSA, the Friends of the Texas Historical Commission, the Friends of the Texas Governor’s Mansion, or the Austin Community Foundation. To date, the effort has raised thousands of dollars from concerned contributors. “Ultimately, the amount raised is secondary to Texans having the ability to actively participate in this historic preservation opportunity” said Donisi. “People want to be involved; they love the Mansion and what it represents – even if just by making a $10 contribution. We’re pleased to provide this opportunity, and delighted with the response.”
Beyond these efforts, numerous HSA members have been involved in the burgeoning restoration effort, offering their expertise and leadership. HSA Board Member Tere O’Connell, a preservation architect with Volz & Associates, is one of the lead consultants on the restoration effort. Board Member and Past President Joe Pinnelli, a preservation contractor and former member of the State Preservation Board, has been quoted extensively on the restoration challenge. Board Member and Past President Dealey Herndon, who spearheaded the comprehensive restoration of the State Capitol, has been consulted by the State. Board Member Bratten Thomason, in her role with the Texas Historical Commission, was part of the initial team providing an assessment of the fire damage, as was former Board Member Wayne Bell, FAIA, Architect, Texas Main Street Program. Board Member Michael Holleran, with The University of Texas School of Architecture and a recognized expert in historic preservation, has also been widely quoted. Board Member and Past President Mike Ward has thoroughly covered this issue as a award winning reporter for the Austin American-Statesman.
HSA and its membership will continue to take a leadership role as the restoration project moves forward, and we will keep you informed. Regretful as it is, this tragedy will educate and highlight the importance of historic preservation to Austin and Texas.
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