Governor’s Mansion, c.1906. Downloaded from MDAH Historic Resources Database, May 23, 2012.

This article/editorial, taking a stand on the preservation of the Governor’s Mansion and the Old Capitol, was re-printed in the Vicksburg Evening Post (July 21, 1905, p.2) from an original publication in the Biloxi Review.

MISSISSIPPI’S OLD CAPITOL BUILDING

With the near approach of another session of the Legislature there is raised the discussion of the problem of what should be done with the old capital [sic] building and the executive mansion. Some favor the sale of both, while others contend for the sale of the old capitol building and the proper repair of the mansion. We are of the opinion the latter is the most sensible and wise plan. That is we favor the sale of all that part of the old capital ground except such proportion of it as is thought necessary for the monument erected by Southern women to the soldiers of the Southern Confederacy. It would be a shame and an outrage to sell that and we are of the opinion it would have to be done over the veto of the present Governor if attempted during this administration. But above all, the executive mansion should be put in repair comporting with the dignity of the State and the State’s chief officer. In its present condition the mansion is a standing reflection upon the legislature of the past several years and this deplorable condition of things should be remedied. The State is prosperous, has a capital building second to none in the country and should have her chief executive housed with some sort of regard for State pride and character. The matter will probably come to the attention of the legislature by recommendation of the Governor, and the work should be given the attention it requires. Certainly the mansion should not be left as is, and if the legislature is too parsimonious and narrow minded to furnish the executive a suitable house to live in where the honor and dignity of the position can be preserved, then the property should be sold and the governor allowed to choose his residence. A change is needed from the present status of affairs, that is an assured fact.

–Biloxi Review

Categories: Architectural Research, Historic Preservation, Jackson