Terrace Hill in Desmoines, IO is home to various Iowan governors and considered one of the most famous landmarks in the state. Opened in the 1970?s to the public, the mansion was originally built by the state?s first millionaire Benjamin Franklin Allen.

The construction, furnishing, and development of the mansion and its carriage house, together with thirty acres of surrounding land, cost Allen approximately $250,000. It was a very modern home for its time, having already been equipped with its own lift, hot running water, indoor restrooms, and gas lighting.

Today, people in Des Moines, Iowa still fondly refer to this not-so-ordinary housing in Iowa as ?Palace of the Prairie?. In the past, the home has welcomed famous guests such as former Vice President Al Gore, who had stayed overnight and occupied F.M. Hubbell?s bed.