the encyclopedic entry of Drumthwacket

Drumthwacket

Drumthwacket is the official residence of the Governor of New Jersey and was built in 1835 by then-future Governor Charles S. Olden.

In 1893, the property was purchased by Moses Taylor Pyne, a Trustee and great benefactor of Princeton University, who greatly expanded the home and constructed an elaborate decorative garden. The renovations and expansions under Pyne were carried out by architect Raleigh Gildersleeve, who also built many buildings on the Princeton campus, as well as a number of Princeton's eating clubs. Pyne died in 1921, and the property was sold by his granddaughter, Agnes Pyne in 1939.

Drumthwacket and the surrounding land was sold to the state in 1966 and was made into the governor's mansion in 1982. Located in Princeton, New Jersey, Drumthwacket is close to Trenton, the state capital. Prior to 1982, Morven was the Governor's mansion. Drumthwacket is administered by the state Department of Environmental Protection, with the interior run by the Drumthwacket Foundation. The residence is known for its extensive gardens.

The Governor of New Jersey is also provided two beach houses on the Jersey Shore for use during his/her tenure in office.

Use by the Governors

Thomas Kean (1982–1990) chose to live in his private home.
James Florio (1990–1994) lived fulltime in the mansion.
Christine Todd Whitman (1994–2001) lived part time in the mansion.
Governor Donald DiFrancesco (2001–2002) lived part time in the mansion.
Acting Governor John O. Bennett (2002) lived in the mansion for his 3 1/2 days in office.
James McGreevey (2002–2004) lived fulltime in the mansion.
Richard Codey (2004–2006) lived part time in the mansion.
Jon Corzine (2006–present) lives in the mansion part time.

Tours

Drumthwacket is open for guided tours on any Wednesday except November 26, December 24 and 31, and the entire month of August. The tours include the six public rooms that the Governor of New Jersey uses for meetings and receptions, as well as the center hall, dining room, parlor, music room, library, and Governor’s study. Visitors can also walk around the gardens and visit Olden House, an original restored farmhouse on the property, which houses the Drumthwacket Foundation office and a gift shop.