Terrace Hill: Iowa Time Machine January 29, 1869

Iowa Time Machine ⏰: On January 29, 1869, Terrace Hill in Des Moines officially welcomed guests for a housewarming party. Built by Benjamin Franklin and Arathna Allen, the house at 2300 Grand in Des Moines has served as the residence of the Iowa Governor since 1976.

Benjamin Franklin Allen, Iowa’s first millionaire, commissioned popular Chicago architect William Boyington to build the house on the then-western edge of Des Moines during the mid-1860s. Constructed from 1866 to 1869, the residence cost $250,000. The Second Empire house stands out with a 90’ tall tower, a steeply pitched Mansard Roof, and narrow windows.

In 1884, Des Moines businessman F.M. Hubbell bought the residence for $60,000. The Hubbells and their descendants occupied the house until 1957. Unoccupied for nearly 15 years, the Hubbell descendants donated the house to the State of Iowa in 1971.

In late 1976, Governor Bob Ray and his family moved into the home on Grand, opening a new era for the iconic Des Moines house. Iowa’s governors have lived at Terrace Hill for nearly five decades. In 2019, Iowans celebrated the 150th birthday of Terrace Hill. #Iowa #OTD #History #Architecture #Home