“The Governor’s house is a fine specimen of architecture, and reflects abundant credit upon those who constructed it, and upon the State whose dignity it represents. […] It is an object of honor and praise to this State, and no true citizen can look upon it without pride,” said an 1856 visitor (18-19).
The Book
When Governor Matteson was elected in 1852, the governor’s home was in the former Illinois Board of Public Works and its front door was up against the sidewalk. Matteson felt this was not suitable for his children, nor for his ability to host receptions with dignity and style. After $50,000 and four years of construction, the mansion opened to the public in January 1856. From that time on, the mansion welcomed governors and their families, state officials, federal visitors, numerous pets, and the people of Illinois. The amount of foot traffic required frequent renovations and restorations. It was quite surprising to see how many times inhabitants found the mansion in poor condition, making the reader wonder how well it was being kept up after frequent renovations.
In the 1960s, the mansion was in danger of being destroyed after many journalists and Governor Kerner viewed it as dangerous. Due to strong support from preservationists and former inhabitants, the mansion was saved, and a massive restoration and addition was completed in the late 1960s. During this time, the Illinois Executive Mansion Association was created. The Association’s mission is to help preserve the mansion and its honorary chairwoman is always the current First Lady of Illinois.
At Home with Illinois Governors is unique because the story of the mansion is told through the lens of the various governors. It is interesting to read of the impact they, and their wives, had on the décor and events. However, it sometimes felt like the mansion took a back seat. There is a brief paragraph about the architect and design of the building and subsequent renovations are described. When special events are highlighted, the author does include details on the décor and programs. The book includes photos of the mansion and its inhabitants as well as watercolors, by Kay Smith, of the interior, exterior, and gardens of the Mansion. The photos capture inhabitants during formal events and everyday life, while the watercolors provide present day views. These are a nice supplement to the stories told in each chapter, which often draw on period newspaper articles and recollections from visitors and inhabitants.
The Place
The Illinois Executive Mansion, or “The People’s House”, provides visitors the opportunity to peak behind the scenes of state government. Since 1855, governors have lived, worked, entertained, and debated within its four walls. The tour highlights select governors – like Governor Yates who served during the Civil War or Governor Stevenson who went on to run for president – and significant eras of Illinois history. Tour guides will also point out the architectural features – like the prominent spiral staircase – and antique furniture – like the hand carved bedroom set that was on display at the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair. The tour covers most of the public areas, but the governor’s private quarters are off limits.
Unfortunately, for almost a decade, the mansion had been unused by two governors and fallen into disrepair, again. In 2015, newly elected Governor and First Lady Rauner spearheaded a privately funded restoration. My tour of the mansion happened towards the end of the restoration. Most of the obvious work had been completed and I appreciated the opportunity to see the Mansion at its best. I can only imagine what it looks like now.
Today, free tours are available on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday at 1:45pm and 3pm. Tours must be reserved ahead of time and all visitors, over 18, must bring a valid photo ID. Photography is not permitted inside the mansion. It is important to note that this is not only a home, but also a functioning state building. There is a possibility that a tour may be canceled.
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