Mansion Timeline

Kearns Strikes it Rich

1889

Thomas Kearns strikes it rich in Park City, Utah through creating one of the greatest silver and lead mines in the world.

The Mansion is Built

1902

Thomas and his wife Jennie use their newfound fortune to construct a 17,000 square foot mansion in Salt Lake City.

A Famous Visitor

1903

President Theodore Roosevelt pays a visit to the Mansion.

Kearns Passes Away

1918

Thomas Kearns dies from injuries sustained during an auto/pedestrian accident, widowing Jennie.

Mansion Donated to the State

1937

After raising her children at the Mansion, Jennie donates it to the State of Utah.

Another Famous Visitor

1953

President Dwight D. Eisenhower visits the Mansion.

Mansion Changes Hands

1957

Mansion is given to the Utah Historical Society and no longer serves as the governor’s residence.

Mansion Renewed as Governor’s Residence

1977

Governor Scott Matheson renovates the Mansion.

Christmas Tree Fire

1993

A Christmas tree fire causes extensive damage to the mansion.

Current Day

2021

Current Mansion resident Gov. Spencer J. Cox spends most of his time in the mansion, but occasionally returns home to his farm in Sanpete County.