New Jersey Governor's Mansion Holiday Tour

PRINCETON, NJ: The holidays have arrived at "The People's House" otherwise known as the Official Governor's Mansion of New Jersey. Also known as Drumthwacket, which is Scottish for a grassy hill here is the introduction to this historic site according to the organization's homepage:

"Constructed on land that witnessed the 1777 Princeton battle for American independence, today Drumthwacket serves as the stately home and grounds of the official residence of the Governor of New Jersey. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places and one of the most elegant of our nation’s executive residences, Drumthwacket’s history tells the stories of three unique families who made immense contributions to New Jersey and the United States of America."

Original map of New Jersey from 1830. Note it lacks Mercer County which was at that time part of Middlesex County.

The tour was unguided with knowledgeable docents available to answer questions and point out interesting details of the mansion's history and decor. An example is the man's portrait in the foyer is that of Governor Charles S.Olden from 1875. The silver punch bowl filled with flowers is from Tiffany and Company and was made in the early 1900s.

Sunroom overlooking a view of the Battle of Princeton which crossed the estate grounds.

The beautiful thing about the Governor's Mansion is the community participation by the local garden clubs in landscaping and decorating the rooms.  Each garden club picked a theme and carried it through to reflect the unique Christmas spirit in New Jersey. Using locally grown and even native plants, flowers, and herbs each room had something unique to offer.

The Library at Drumthwacket

During our tour, one of the docents offered to take our photo in front of the cozy lit fireplace in the mansion's library.  Note the beautifully decorated mantle. So festive in the Christmas spirit!  Many years ago, there was a tradition to keep copies of all New Jersey authors' books on the shelves here.  I've donated copies of mine as a New Jersey native.

A view of the back of the Governor's Mansion from the estate grounds.

We concluded our house tour with a walk in the tiered landscaped gardens which again included many plants, trees, and shrubs native to New Jersey.  I noted several types of holly bush which was the perfect end to our Holiday House Tour. 

 Find out more on upcoming open house dates at www.drumthwacket.org