Evelyn Langlie, Photo from Washington State Archives
OLYMPIA — Meet some of Washington’s First Ladies and one Governor on “special first-person tours” of the Washington state Governor’s Mansion on Wednesdays March 6, at 2 and 2:20 p.m.; March 13, at 1 and 1:20 p.m.; and March 27, at 2 and 2:20 p.m.
The tours, part of Women’s History Month in March, will feature Governor’s Mansion Foundation docents dressed “in character.” They will share historical moments about the people and events of the Mansion throughout its 110-year history.
From the early years of the Mansion through the dramatic events of two wars and the history-making tenure of the state’s first woman governor, Dixy Lee Ray, visitors will learn and enjoy important history through this personal and unique trip through the Mansion. The First Ladies spotlighted on the 40-minute tour will include Lizzie Hay, Alma Lister, Margaret Martin, Evelyn Langlie, Mabel Wallgren, Lois Spellman and Nancy Evans.
“It is important to point out that current First Lady, Trudi Inslee, has helped the Foundation make these tours possible,” said Dawna Donohue, vice president and chair of the Mansion Tours. “Her support and cooperation have been priceless to help the Foundation continue its mission.”
Reservations
Reservations MUST be made at least 24-hours in advance (reservations are on a first-come, first served basis so schedule early). To make a reservation go to https://apps.des.wa.gov/Mansion/Mansion.aspx.”
For questions or additional information, please contact the State Capitol Tour Office at 360.902.8880.
Governor’s Mansion tours are available every Wednesday (except holidays and the month of August). All tours are made possible by the Governor’s Mansion Foundation.
Tour information
Adult tour guests must present photo identification and all visitors under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. No cameras, umbrellas, strollers, or food/drink will be allowed on the tour. The Mansion is accessible to wheelchairs and walkers. Visitors must walk a 200-yard incline up to the entrance.
Visitors to the Georgian-style mansion, situated on a bluff overlooking Capitol Lake, Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains, will get a 45- minute walking tour of the Mansion. The circa-1908 Mansion is the oldest building on Olympia’s Capitol Campus.
Visitors will get guided tours of the Mansion’s permanent collection of antique furnishings and Northwest artwork, including the renowned wall-size murals of Washington scenes in the state dining room.
Governor’s Mansion Foundation
The Governor’s Mansion Foundation, an all-volunteer, non-profit, non-partisan organization, hosts weekly tours of the Mansion on most Wednesdays (except holidays and the month of August).
To learn more on becoming a “Friend of the Mansion”, or for more information on the GMF, visit www.wagovmansion.org.
