Texas' first family gives glimpse into restored governor’s mansion

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Tourists and Texans alike will soon be allowed to step foot in the governor’s mansion once again.

Gov. Rick Perry and First Lady Anita opened up the restored home Wednesday to let the media get a firsthand look.

It's been four years since an arson fire nearly destroyed the home Luckily, the governor and his family, as well as much of the history inside, was removed from the mansion about one year prior so restoration work could be done on the home.

However, the building suffered significant damage in the fire.

"All that prevented the mansion from burning to its very foundation was the bravery and dedication of the members of Austin Fire Department," Gov. Perry said.

Three of those first responders were there Wednesday to see the fixed-up home.

"It looks fabulous now,” firefighter Kelly Gall said. “I'm very excited to see there's a sprinkler system on both floors."

First Lady Anita Perry says she's happy to be back, and gladly talked to reporters about the mansion’s changes and historic fixtures, but says she still has quite a bit of packing to do at the old place.

Gov. Perry and Anita will be moving in at the end of the month. The green fencing that surrounded the mansion for so many years has been removed.

No word yet on when the public tours will resume.