First Lady Anita Perry
Heritage Society Makes First Donation to Restore the Governor's Mansion
The Heritage Society of Austin was pleased to present $10,000 to the cause of restoring the Texas Governor's Mansion. This Texas treasure was recently the target of a devastating arson fire.
Contributions from generous and caring individuals from Texas and beyond
immediately began arriving for the fund that the Heritage Society established the day of the fire. These donations along with Heritage Society funds were presented to First Lady Anita Perry on July 15 at a press conference announcing the formation of a non-profit to lead future fundraising efforts.
Heritage Society Reacts
to Tragic Fire
As you know, Austin and Texas suffered a tragic blow when an arsonist targeted the Governor’s Mansion in the early morning hours of June 8, 2008. It’s an understatement to say that Texans were shocked, saddened – and angered – when they awoke to see the heavy damage revealed upon daybreak that Sunday morning. The stately Mansion that pre-dates the neighboring Capitol lay charred and smoldering, reduced to a crime scene.
A mere twelve hours after the fire was first reported, the Heritage Society of Austin was engaged, publicly lamenting the loss and rallying Texans for a full and complete restoration. “We’re confident that – regardless of the extent of the damage – Texans will come together in support of returning the Mansion to its original stature and beauty. Where there’s a will there’s a way, and Texans won’t shy away from this challenge,” said HSA President John Donisi in a widely reported statement. HSA President-Elect Julian Read also was on the scene, as was former Gov. Mark White. (Both Donisi and Read have a personal connection to the Mansion, serving as confidants to Governors Ann Richards and John Connally, respectively.) “This is priceless Texas history. I can't imagine any expense that shouldn't be spared to restore it” said White.
And Texans responded – with numerous calls and e-mails to HSA, wanting to assist in any way possible. On Wednesday, June 11, HSA announced an opportunity to donate funds for the Mansion restoration effort to HSA, the Friends of the Texas Historical Commission, the Friends of the Texas Governor’s Mansion, or the Austin Community Foundation. To date, the effort has raised thousands of dollars from concerned contributors. “Ultimately, the amount raised is secondary to Texans having the ability to actively participate in this historic preservation opportunity” said Donisi. “People want to be involved; they love the Mansion and what it represents – even if just by making a $10 contribution. We’re pleased to provide this opportunity, and delighted with the response.”
Beyond these efforts, numerous HSA members have been involved in the burgeoning restoration effort, offering their expertise and leadership. HSA Board Member Tere O’Connell, a preservation architect with Volz & Associates, is one of the lead consultants on the restoration effort. Board Member and Past President Joe Pinnelli, a preservation contractor and former member of the State Preservation Board, has been quoted extensively on the restoration challenge. Board Member and Past President Dealey Herndon, who spearheaded the comprehensive restoration of the State Capitol, has been consulted by the State. Board Member Bratten Thomason, in her role with the Texas Historical Commission, was part of the initial team providing an assessment of the fire damage, as was former Board Member Wayne Bell, FAIA, Architect, Texas Main Street Program. Board Member Michael Holleran, with The University of Texas School of Architecture and a recognized expert in historic preservation, has also been widely quoted. Board Member and Past President Mike Ward has thoroughly covered this issue as a award winning reporter for the Austin American-Statesman.
HSA and its membership will continue to take a leadership role as the restoration project moves forward, and we will keep you informed. Regretful as it is, this tragedy will educate and highlight the importance of historic preservation to Austin and Texas.
