Government House (Antigua & Barbuda)

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Government House, Saint John's, Antigua & Barbuda

The official residence as well as office of the Governor General, was built in the 17th Century Colonial style with Georgian architecture and extensive gardens. The residence is not open to the public.

In 1801 a proposal for the construction of a Government House slated to be the Governor's residence was adopted. Previously he had resided in rented homes. Unfortunately, this stately home fell into disrepair some years back but today, a private society (along the government) raised funds to have the building restored.

Government House, known originally as 'The Parsonage', was constructed in the latter half of the eighteenth century. It provides a dramatic record of the changing role of the Antigua and Barbuda Governor General and is an important symbol of this evolution, from early proprietary government to the time of full adult suffrage and creation of the legislative council, with an elected majority. As the needs of the Crown's representative evolved, the house went through extensive alterations. Modifications made to the building reflect its evolving role as the home of the Governor General. Once restored, the Government House complex will continue to serve as the Governor General's residence.