President and Mrs. Ford in Front of the Blue Room Christmas Tree, 1974

This photograph is of President Gerald R. Ford and First Lady Betty Ford posing in front of the Blue Room Christmas Tree for a portrait. Karl Schumacher took this photograph on December 17, 1974, during the Christmas party for members of Congress. Mrs. Ford selected handmade crafts as the theme for the holiday decor. The theme promoted Americana and provided inspiration for thrifty decorations, as many households limited their holiday budgets due to a poor economy.