CHARLESTON, W.Va. — The West Virginia Department of Administration announced today that renovation work has officially begun on the historic Holly Grove mansion, the oldest surviving residence on the State Capitol Complex.
“We are excited about the opportunity to preserve this historic property and breathe new life into it,” said West Virginia Department of Administration Cabinet Secretary Eric Householder. “As the oldest building on campus, we wanted to maintain its historic beauty while also creating a multi-purpose space that the people of West Virginia can enjoy and be proud of for generations to come."
The Department of Administration’s General Services Division issued a Notice to Proceed to Morgantown-based March-Westin Company, Inc. on May 4, 2026. The renovation project was awarded for $3,584,745 and is expected to be completed by late January 2027.
Previously used as office space, the renovation is intended to preserve the historic structure while giving the building a renewed purpose and ensuring its long-term use for future generations. Funding for the project was made possible through a surplus appropriation approved by the West Virginia Legislature during the 2023 Regular Session.
Originally constructed in 1815 by saltmaker Daniel Ruffner, Holly Grove predates the entire Capitol Complex and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1974. Located adjacent to the Governor’s Mansion, the building previously housed various state agencies before being vacated in 2004 due to code compliance, fire safety, and accessibility issues.