Former Governors' Mansion State Historic Site

Located at 320 E. Ave. B in Bismarck, the site consists of a large two and one-half story, restored Victorian house and a carriage house. Constructed in 1884, it housed was home to North Dakota's first families between 1893 and 1960. Unique room exhibits feature the restoration process, architectural style changes, and furniture used by several governors. 

The home was built in 1884 as a private residence by Asa Fisher, at various times he was a wholesale liquor dealer, register of the Bismarck Land Office and president of the First National Bank. He sold this house to the state for $5,000 in 1893. The home served as the governors residence for 67 years. In 1975 the State Historical Society of North Dakota was given the house with the hope that it would operate as a historic house museum. Extensive research and restoration has been completed, restoring the house to its former appearance as it might have been in 1893. Original furnishings and fixtures, photographs, and dozens of exposed wallpaper samples reveal how popular tastes have changed over the years.

Learn about the political upheavals—from state constitutional crises to world wars—experienced by the governors, first ladies, and their children.