Where Governors Lived: The chief executive’s residence has changed many times.

Harrisburg has been the state capital since 1812, but Pennsylvania’s governors have only had an official residence for a portion of the last 200 years.

From Gov. Snyder through Gov. Pollock, Pennsylvania’s chief executive did not have “official” living quarters in Harrisburg and would instead rent rooms or apartments in the city from which to conduct business. In 1858, the state first appropriated $11,000 for the purchase and furnishing of a residence for the governor. This house, originally located at S. 2nd and Chestnut streets, was used until 1864 when a house was purchased at 311 N. Front St. and converted into a mansion.

Gov. John White Geary added a second identical house and also a false façade, which made the mansion appear as one large home. By the 1880s, the term “Keystone Hall” was used to describe the governor’s official residence. During the 19^th century, “Keystone Hall” served as both residence and office for the governor and his staff, as there was no official area for the governor in the old Hills Capitol.

Over time, the mansion underwent numerous renovations and additions. In 1894 with the completion of the Executive, Library and Museum Building, future governors finally had an official office and reception room. In 1906 with the completion of the current Capitol, the governor’s offices were moved to the second floor of the building’s south wing, while “Keystone Hall” still served as the official residence. Governors also began using a converted summer home at Fort Indiantown Gap (now the lieutenant governor’s residence).

By the late 1940s, it was apparent that “Keystone Hall” was becoming a bit dated and plans were made to build a new mansion, but World War II halted construction. After the war, the summer residence at Fort Indiantown Gap was used as the primary residence until the current Georgian-style home was completed. Designed by architect George Ewing, the building occupies 28,600 square feet and has 32 rooms. It was completed in 1968 and has served eight governors since that time. The old mansion at 311 N. Front St. was demolished in the early 1960s.

Jason Wilson is a research historian for the Capitol Preservation Committee.