Gov.’s mansion an Oklahoma site-to-see

By Kevin Hahn, News Writing Student

The state of Oklahoma turned 100 years old Nov. 16. In an effort to educate students about Oklahoma’s history, Student Life planned several trips to local historical sites.

On Nov 14 the group planned to visit the Oklahoma Governor’s Mansion, home of current Gov. Brad Henry.

When the group arrived at the mansion they were greeted by one of the many volunteers from the Friends of the Mansion organization, who conduct the group tours.

A guide provided information on each room, as well as the building itself.

Plans for the mansion were drawn up in 1914 at the same time as the capital building, but concerns for funding held up the construction.

The oil boom of the late 1920’s provided more than enough money for the project and the mansion was completed in 1928.

As the tour moved through the house, it was clear that Oklahoma’s connection to the Native American tribes is represented well.

Several pieces of artwork depicting American Indian images decorate the walls of the mansion while the formal dining room displays the official seals of several tribes.

In 1995 Gov. Frank Keating invited Oklahoma citizens to participate in a large scale renovation that would restore the mansion to its original glory, while at the same time adding several modern conveniences.

Currently Gov. Brad Henry lives in the mansion with the First Lady Kim Henry and their three daughters, Leah, Laynie, and Baylee. The public portion of the mansion is available for touring every Wednesday for free with no reservations required.