Today Himachal Governor, V.S. Kokje, inaugurated a ceremony to commemorate the 175th anniversary of Barnes Court, at Raj Bhawan, the official residence of the Governor of Himachal Pradesh.
Mr. Kokje informed that Barnes court (Raj Bhawan) bears testimony to many historical events and signing of ‘Simla Agreement’ between India and Pakistan was one of them. He added that over the years, the original architecture of this building had been maintained and only minor additions have been made in the structure. He said that this historic building was one of the beautiful heritage buildings of the town. He said that Barnes Court was European in style but its architecture was purely hilly. He stressed upon the need to preserve such historical and heritage buildings for posterity.
The building was built in 1832 and Sir Edward Barnes, the then British Commander in Chief was the first occupant of the building.
Mrs. Rama Devi, former Governor of Himachal Pradesh also shared her experiences being the Governor of State from 1997 to 1999 on the occasion.
She said that Himachalis were great artists and added that the people of the State were hard working and peace loving.
