Palace on the Prairie

Palace on the Prairie

Experience the history and stunning architecture of Terrace Hill, the Iowa Governor's residence

By Haley Banwart

For more than 150 years, Terrace Hill has served as a window into Iowa’s storied past and unfurling present.

Originally built as a luxurious private home outside the fast-developing community of Des Moines, the 18,000-square-foot architectural treasure now serves as the official governor’s residence and a National Historic Landmark.

A Home Ahead of Its Time

When the construction of Terrace Hill was completed, the ornate towers, bays and balconies fashioned in the popular French Second Empire style contrasted against the rugged Iowa prairie.

The vision for such grandeur began with Benjamin Franklin Allen, a self-made man who overcame a life of poverty to become Iowa’s first millionaire.

Allen’s successful ventures in banking, real estate, rail and politics were instrumental to the sprawling growth of the capital city. At the height of his fortune, Allen and his wife Arathusa set out to build their dream home.

The site for the Allen’s future home was 32 acres overlooking the Raccoon River on a terraced hill that offered scenic views in every direction. William W. Boyington, one of Chicago’s earliest professional architects, was commissioned to design the countryside fortress.

Few extravagances were spared during the three-year construction period. The inclusion of hot and cold running water, central steam heating, gas lights, a lift and indoor plumbing made Terrace Hill the smart house of its time.

“According to local folklore, there are no surviving blueprints of Boyington’s original vision for Terrace Hill,” shares Claire Sowder, Terrace Hill communications and events coordinator. “They were reportedly lost in the Chicago Fire of 1871. Yet, Terrace Hill still stands today and remains one of few mansions of its kind.”

Terrace Hill, constructed from 1866-1869, is an exceptional example of the French Second Empire building style.

Photo credit: Terrace Hill

The Legacy Lives On

Since its doors opened for a housewarming party in 1869, Terrace Hill has long been a gathering place cherished by its guests and residents.

The Allen family battled through a financial downfall that eventually led them to sell their prized home. Frederick M. Hubbell, a Des Moines businessman, purchased the property and his lasting rise to fame and fortune helped secure its future.

The Hubbell family lived in the estate for more than 70 years. Under their exquisite care, the legacy of Terrace Hill endured after the family donated it to the state of Iowa.

In 1978, the first and second floors were opened to the public as a museum and event space – offering a glimpse into the lavish Victorian lifestyle of its wealthy former owners. The third floor, once designated as servants’ quarters, was renovated and modernized to accommodate the first family.

Each year, more than 1,500 visitors and dignitaries from Iowa, the U.S. and the globe visit Terrace Hill and marvel at the historic grounds and time traveled furnishings.

“As Iowans, we value our historical heritage, and Terrace Hill is a great reflection of how we work hard to keep our history alive while bringing it to life in the 21st century,” says Sowder.

“Not every governor’s residence is open to the public, so Terrace Hill is unique in that respect,” she says. “We’ve struck a great balance working with Gov. Kim Reynolds and First Gentleman Kevin Reynolds to open the home for others to enjoy.”

Terrace Hill is open for tours and special events from March through December.