Welcome to the Governor’s Mansion, officially known as the Executive Residence, situated in the charming village of Maple Bluff, Wisconsin. This stately home has been a symbol of leadership and history since it became the official residence of Wisconsin’s governors in 1949. As we explore this historic site, let’s travel back to its beginnings and trace the footsteps of those who have called it home.
The story of the Governor’s Mansion begins in 1920 when Madison industrialist Carl A. Johnson commissioned the construction of a magnificent home on the eastern shore of Lake Mendota. Designed by the renowned architect Frank M. Riley, who favored the Southern Classical Revival style, the mansion was completed in 1927. Johnson’s residence was a testament to the architectural elegance of the time, featuring over 16,000 square feet of living space, including 34 rooms, 13 bathrooms, and 7 bedrooms.
In 1949, the state of Wisconsin purchased the property from Thomas R. Hefty, a Madison banker who had acquired it in 1932. The mansion thus transitioned from a private residence to the state’s Executive Residence. This move marked the end of the Old Executive Mansion’s era on East Gilman Street in Madison, where Wisconsin governors had resided since the late 19th century.
The mansion is not only a home but also a piece of Wisconsin’s history. Its grounds include a wrought-iron fence that once surrounded the old State Capitol Building, adding a touch of historical significance to the property. Over the years, the residence has undergone renovations, most notably in the 1960s, yet it retains much of Carl Johnson’s original vision.
Notably, the mansion has embraced sustainability efforts, with solar panels installed in 2009 under Governor Jim Doyle’s administration, reflecting a commitment to modern environmental standards.
Today, the Governor’s Mansion continues to serve as a venue for receptions, dinners, and public tours, welcoming approximately 20,000 visitors each year. As you explore its gardens and historic rooms, you are walking through the halls where key decisions have been made and where the legacy of Wisconsin’s leadership continues to unfold.
