In 1835 Charles Smith Olden built the stately central portion of the mansion. He was inspired by the architecture of New Orleans, having been in business there, and built his home with a colossal portico and six massive pillars topped by Ionic capitals. Olden led a life of dedicated public service, including Governor of New Jersey in 1860.

A later owner, Moses Taylor Pyne, enlarged the mansion to its present dimensions by adding two wings, one of which included a Gothic wood-paneled library. He also gave Drumthwacket its Celtic name, which allegedly means "wooded hill."

Owned by the State of New Jersey since 1966, in 1981 Drumthwacket was designated the Governor's residence. It is managed as an historic site by the Drumthwacket Foundation, which furnished the mansion with some of the finest examples of the 18th and early 19th centuries, including tall case clocks and pieces by Matthew Egerton.

Drumthwacket is today the site of numerous receptions, dinners, and balls for foreign dignitaries, members of the New Jersey Legislature, and citizen's groups. Visitors may tour some of the first floor rooms this historic mansion. All will surely get the feel of the history that took place here.

Individuals and Groups (15 or more) of all ages are welcome by reservation, including School Groups (recommended for grades 4 and up).