Inside the Minnesota Governor Residence

Inside the Minnesota Governor's Mansion, just because.

It was a spur of the moment decision to tour the Governor's Residence on this day, a most phenomenal idea too.

There were exceptional pieces throughout the residence, and many vintage items too.  It offered pieces on loan from the Minneapolis Institute of Arts and the Minnesota College of Art and Design, as well as pieces from Governor Dayton's personal collection.  Note, that the majority of the artwork changes with each administration, so the decor is ever changing.  

Naturally, you'll only be seeing a small portion within this post, so if you get the chance to tour it yourself, I suggest you take it quickly.

My photos begin with my personal favorite, made from scratch simply for Christmas Decorating, situated in the lowest level.

My trusty sidekick, was very impressed with the decor in this room.  A  magical place for any cowboy with a Texas flair to it.

 Old world charm compliments any room.

You walk right by this lovely piece located in the lower foyer, on your way to a room masterfully designed with an easy to duplicate-it-yourself decor.  Most of these items could be obtained right from your own backyard, or neighborhood garden and antique shop.

Just grab and cut an old sheet, place a pine twig in the center of the bow and presto, what a charming chair you've created.

Do you notice the artwork over the fireplace mantel?  As mentioned much of the artwork came from various places, even some from the original owners and each piece was quite striking and memorable.

Close up of a Christmas stocking holder.

Delightful mix of old Minnesota memorabilia.

This was my favorite piece, surely a great story behind the creation of this.  If you look closely you'll see the reflection of another interesting piece, that I couldn't find anyone to explain the purpose of either.  For further study later.

You'll notice the reflection of portraits within this picture, reflecting from the wall of First Lady Portraits.  

I needn't explain this to any Minnesotan or fan right?

Moving along to the upstairs, and main level of the house this staircase below is located in the main foyer and leads to the second level of the mansion.

We begin with Herb, the house mouse!  Hehehe! A child's delight anyway.

You are now entering the Drawing room.

A wonderful treat was having the piano played and hearing it throughout the house.

Good to see fire extinguishers all about too!

This photo was taken in the Solarium, and just outside the window is a simple stone terrace.  Before the Solarium was enlarged, there was a vegetable garden and clothesline in that space.

This photo below is a favorite for every residence, right?  The Dining Room, which displayed an old familiar glow beginning from the white curved ceiling. 

The walls and folding doors are of Circassian walnut and the white stone fireplace with carved shields has a Tudor arch opening framed by a carved wooden mantle and is supported by decorative matching columns.  Also, in true Tudor style, the brass fireplace andirons with lion heads set the mood for fine craftsmanship from the period.

More festive and decorative ideas for dressing chairs.

Of course most likely it adds a tantalizing attraction for any house cat.

The china which is used mostly is the "State Seal" patterned by Pickard, which incorporates the official Minnesota state seal.

Teach children early the art of fine dining, and adorning place settings!

Why you ask? Because they may surprise you and add a few touches to your own evening meal!  Place setting design by Mason.

Leaving the dining room and within the hallway before entering the library is this lovely old relic!  Any idea what it is?

This is the telephone and call panel outside the Library door and is part of the original communication system that was installed as the house was built.  You could call any other station within the house, or even over to the Carriage House.  They could also place and receive outside calls as well.

The Library.  

Also inside the library is the table pictured below.  It's called the "Rent Table" with 8 drawers that were originally used by landlords, to hold the different leases for the various tenants.  The table dates from the 1800's and is of Regency style.  The top of the table turns 360 degrees.

Isn't that simple tree branch just adorable?

I leave you with this lovely angel playing a sweet remembrance of the day.

"Christmas doesn't come from a store, maybe Christmas means a little bit more....." - Dr. Seuss

"My idea for Christmas, whether old fashioned or modern, is very simple: loving others.  Come to think of it, why do we have to wait for Christmas to do that?" - Bob Hope