Governor's Mansion State Historic Park, Sacramento

The Governor's Mansion State Historic Park in Sacramento is a significant site that showcases both California’s political and architectural heritage. The park is built around the former residence of the California governor, used from 1903 to 1967 and again from 2015 to 2019. The mansion itself was constructed in 1877 and features a blend of Second Empire and Italianate styles, typical of the lavish tastes of that time.

The mansion was originally built for Albert Gallatin, a local businessman, and changed ownership in 1887 to Joseph Steffens, whose son, Lincoln Steffens, became a famous journalist. The state bought the property in 1903 to use as the official governor's residence. It was home to 14 governors until Ronald Reagan decided against living there in 1967, after which the mansion was managed by California State Parks and turned into a historic park.

Inside, the mansion holds a collection of cultural items from various governors, like a Steinway piano from 1902 during Governor George Pardee’s time, velvet furniture from Governor Hiram Johnson’s days, and Persian rugs from Earl Warren’s tenure. Each piece reflects the personal style and historical period of the governors and their families.

The mansion was temporarily used again as the governor's residence after extensive renovations in 2015 when Governor Jerry Brown moved in. These renovations updated essential services and improved safety features, including the removal of lead paint and the installation of a fire sprinkler system. Governor Gavin Newsom lived there briefly until 2019.

Now, the Governor's Mansion State Historic Park functions as a museum open to the public. Visitors can tour the well-preserved rooms with their original furnishings and decorations that tell the story of California's gubernatorial eras. The park’s grounds are also historic, with diverse plants and trees dating back to when the mansion was built, adding to its historical value. The park offers visitors a unique view of the state’s gubernatorial past and its architectural development.