The Governor’s Mansion in Albany

It was built in the 1850s by Thomas Olcott, one of the wealthiest men in Albany, on what was the edge of the residential part of city at that time.

In 1875 it was leased to new Governor Samuel Tilden and then purchased by NYS to serve as the official Governor’s residence. (Before that Governors simply lived in their own houses or leased properties during their term.)

The Mansion has been renovated many times over the years. Teddy Roosevelt needed to accommodate his large family.

TR’s Children in Mansion Portico

TR’s  cousin Franklin Roosevelt added a swimming pool.

FDR and family, and Admiral Byrd

Eleanor Roosevelt walking the family dog

FDR’s wheel chair on display at Mansion today

The Roosevelts by the Mansion fireside

During Governor Lehman’s administration, following FDR, Mrs. Lehman did a bit of sprucing up (Eleanor Roosevelt was NOT an interior decorating sort.)

Mansion during Lehmann Administration

Governor Lehman and Gov. (soon to be President) Roosevelt

Governor Dewey and wife eat soybeans for the war effort.

In 1961 a fire ripped through the Mansion while Rockefeller was governor, and it was completely re-done.

Governor Rockefeller at a holiday staff party  circa  1970.

Copyright 2021 Julie O’Connor