When Sarah Palin said she was resigning from the office of Governor for the State of Alaska – no one was more surprised than her 30,000 neighbors in Juneau, which is where the Alaska Governor’s Mansion is located.

Sarah Palin is Alaska’s biggest celebrity and she is often seen sharing the streets and byways of Juneau with her fellow citizens. It is no wonder that so many of her constituents are stunned and saddened by her decision to leave the office she won just 30 short months ago.

Juneau is arguably the most scenic capital of any of the 50 states, and probably has the smallest complex of government buildings in a capital city area. Juneau’s downtown is so compact that everyone seems to know everyone.

When Governor Palin moves on later this month, she will leave behind the Governor’s House in Juneau.

We decided to put together some pictures to show our readers what the governor’s home looks like – it may surprise you.

The mansion was built in 1912 at a cost of $40,000. It is located on 716 Calhoun Avenue, a quiet and very ordinary looking street just a few blocks from downtown Juneau.

Except for a totem pole in the front yard, the house is not the least bit pretentious – a refreshing verity in today’s glitzy political milieu.

We visited the governor's residence while writing about the ports of call on the Inside Passage of Alaska. We were surprised to be able to walk up to the front door without interference.

A couple from Argentina standing next to us on the porch expressed shock at the complete lack of security. “This would not be possible in our country,” they said incredulously.

We were not allowed to take pictures inside the building, but were able to take many - from all angles - of the exterior.

For those who do not already know, the banner pictured in the front window of the Governor’s house is the Blue Star Service Banner, signifying that the family inside has a son or daughter proudly serving in the American Armed Forces. The governor also displays a Blue Star Pin on her attire.

For more of our articles about the Inside Passage of Alaska cut and paste:
http://www.examiner.com/x-1963-Active-Seniors-Travel-Examiners

Happy travels!

Photos © Wayne and Judy Bayliff