On June 8, 2008, an arsonist set fire to the Governor’s Mansion. At the time of the fire, the Mansion was unoccupied, and the historic furnishings and collection were in storage while the Mansion underwent deferred maintenance to upgrade plumbing, mechanical, and fire systems.
Restoration of the Mansion after the fire took four years and required millions of dollars from the state and private donations. In July 2012, the Mansion Collection was returned to the Mansion, and the First Family moved back into the home.