Stop the Governor's Mansion Addition

The Heritage Society of Austin urges all Texans and the preservation community to oppose the current plans for an addition to the Texas Governor's Mansion.  As you may be aware, our organization 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 are not in support of the expansion as currently proposed. 

The Heritage Society objects to the addition based on four interrelated reasons.  First, we must take issue with the underlying premise that there currently is inadequate living space for First Families.  There not only is adequate space dedicated to private quarters alone, but additional adjacent  space is available if and when needed.  Recent governors' families with up to four children have been quoted as saying they have been totally comfortable in the Mansion.

Our second objection centers on process.   This decision will determine the immutable destiny of one of our state's most sacred structures - one of only two National Historic Landmarks in Austin. Yet only one plan has been presented, which is based on the flawed premise that expansion is necessary.  This has been the process to date, despite public promises that restoration would be undertaken only with consultation and collaboration with historic preservationists.  The Mansion belongs to all the people of Texas, and the public has the right to help decide on its future.

 So the initial premise and  lack of open process has led to a product that we cannot support. The plan as currently conceived and recommended destroys for all time the architectural integrity of the Governor's Mansion, along with a magnificent heritage live oak tree that adds nature's beauty to the peaceful historic landscape. The proposed addition would be visible from three of the four adjacent streets, and would impact the iconic and symbolic frontal view of the Mansion.   The Mansion is one of Texas' most important and visible historic landmarks.  How we as Texans treat it sets a standard and sends a signal across our state as to the inherent value of landmarks and historic preservation. 

Finally, if carried out as presently proposed, this step will come at a very steep cultural price to the state of Texas.  If the state can restore its own treasures correctly, it will lose credibility or authority to dictate the standards of historic preservation to others. Furthermore, beyond the impacts to the integrity of the Mansion itself, the proposed addition may set a destructive precedent for National Historic Landmarks across the country.

 The Governor's Mansion and the people of Texas deserve better.   We urge a reconsideration of other viable options that have been proposed which provide necessary changes but preserve the elegance of the Capitol's beautiful companion on the hill nearby.