On Friday, December 1, 2017, the Republican Women of Dane County enjoyed an exclusive private tour of the Wisconsin Executive Residence, better known as the Governor’s Mansion. The mansion is located in the Village of Maple Bluff. Our Governor, Scott Walker, is the 14th Governor to reside here.
The mansion was originally designed by an architect named Frank Riley. With construction completing in 1928, the property was owned by a Madison industrialist named Carl Johnson. In 1933, a banker by the name of Thomas Hefty bought the mansion, and then the State of Wisconsin purchased it from Mr. Hefty in 1949. At the time the state acquired it, the price paid was $47,500 while the assessed value was $200,000. Located on 3.7 acres of land on the shore of Lake Mendota, the mansion – with 16,000 square feet of living space – has 34 rooms and 10 gardens (see link below for more details).
Members and guests of the Republican Women of Dane County gathered at the mansion on a bright and beautiful morning. For the holiday season, the residence was decorated with Christmas trees, lights, and many ornaments. While the true sparkle of the lights could only be seen after sunset, the women (and men) spent the morning in various rooms, appreciating the beauty in every corner. Most importantly, the Republican Women of Dane County is thankful for the current occupants of the mansion – our wonderful governor and his family.
This is the season of joy, and the season to reflect on things of the past, and to plan for the days ahead. Our state has been through enormous challenges, and for the last seven years our governor has worked very hard to help us overcome many of the difficulties we faced prior to his election. The people of Wisconsin supported him as he, with the help of other conservative leaders throughout the state, implemented bold reforms and steered the economy towards prosperity. We continue to support him, and we pray that Governor Walker and his efforts continue to move Wisconsin forward.
Following the tour, the Republican Women of Dane County headed to Maple Bluff Country Club for a special Christmas luncheon. In addition to excellent food, the event featured speakers, raffle prizes, and Christmas carols. The luncheon, on a Friday afternoon, gave everyone a chance to relax, celebrate the season, and be thankful for each other’s company.
With the December luncheon, the Republican Women of Dane County prepared to wave goodbye to 2017. When the group comes back together in 2018, it will be a new year full of blessings, opportunities, and achievements.
Reference
http://wisconsinexecutiveresidence.com/wisconsin-history/
http://www.wkow.com/story/36928500/trees-lit-for-holiday-season-at-wisconsin-governors-mansion