Celebrating the centennial of the governor’s mansion, Washington Gov. Christine Gregoire says renovations since the 1970s have left the stately landmark by the state Capitol ready for another 100 years.

More than 300 invited guests attended Friday’s garden party to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the laying of the cornerstone for the mansion, initially built to host distinguished visitors who came to the state for the Alaska-Pacific-Yukon Exposition Seattle in 1909.

After six decades the mansion was plagued with outdated wiring and poor heating until efforts by then-first lady Nancy Evans and others led to an overhaul and formation of the Governors Mansion Foundation in 1972 to raise money for continued upkeep. Since the foundation was formed, it has provided $500,000 for the building and a historic painting of George Washington valued at $220,000.

Taxpayers also have paid for some repairs, including $100,000 for exterior painting and 24-thousand to replace appliances in recent years. (AP)