The grounds of the two-acre Mansion complex are used extensively for entertaining by the Governor and First Lady.
The grounds are enclosed with brick and wrought-iron fences. First Lady Nellie Connally established a formal landscape plan in the 1960s. The Connally gardens contain a fountain pool, a pergola and colonnade, and brick walkways.
A replica of the 1870s gazebo was constructed on the south lawn during the early 1980s restoration. The Carriage House was constructed around 1900. The beautifully landscaped grounds that once contributed to the First Family’s food supply and stabled the family horses now serve many functions, both private and public.
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Mansion Grounds, circa 1890.
Image Courtesy: PICA06530, Austin History Center, Austin Public Library
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Governor’s Mansion from the Capitol, circa 1889. The Davis gazebo is visible on the left.
Image Courtesy: Texas State Library and Archives Commission, 1932/5-105
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Governor Dan Moody with pet deer on the Mansion grounds. The Carriage House is visible in the background.
Image Courtesy: C02871, Austin History Center, Austin Public Library
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Governor Neff and his family admire the plants in the garden near the greenhouse.
Image Courtesy: C08031, Austin History Center, Austin Public Library
