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Written documents in the National Archives and in Thomas Jefferson’s papers describe the Entrance Hall museum but no graphics survive to suggest the actual arrangement. Peter Waddell has brought the documents to life in an imagined portrait of the interior as Jefferson may have arranged it. Watercolor on Archer paper by Peter Waddell, 2012.
A State Dinner honoring a visiting head of government or reigning monarch is one of the grandest and most glamorous of White House affairs. It is part of an official state visit and provides the president and first lady the opportunity to honor the visiting head of state and his or her spouse. In this short video, learn the history
Learn about Theodore Roosevelt's time at the White House including stories about his rambunctious children. Featuring Dr. Matthew Costello, historian at the White House Historical Association and author of The Property of the Nation: George Washington’s Tomb, Mount Vernon, and the Memory of the First President.
The White House is perhaps the most iconic building in the United States. Since its completion in 1800, the “People’s House” has been the home of presidents and first families, a busy workplace, and the site of countless historic happenings and public events. There are many stories to be told about the White House, but few capture the imagination of genera
Learn about the role African American chefs have played in White House history with author Adrian Miller.
Learn about what it is like to work at the White House from Anita McBride, former Chief of Staff for First Lady Laura Bush.
Join the White House Historical Association for a brief look at the history of presidential inaugural ceremonies and how the events surrounding the swearing in of a new president have become bedrock traditions of the peaceful transfer of power.
The White House is more than just a home and office for the President of the United States, it is also a museum housing a large collection of art. As the nation has grown and changed, so has the White House Collection. Explore the White House Collection and its uniquely American stories from diverse and innovative artists.
The White House Historical Association is a private non-profit educational organization with a mission to enhance the understanding and appreciation of the Executive Mansion. Learn about how First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy helped found the Association in 1961 to help the White House collect and exhibit the very best artifacts of American history and culture. Featuring Stewart D. McLaurin, President of the
Learn how the advent of photography created a new way to experience life at the White House during the Civil War. Featuring Evan Phifer, Research Historian at the White House Historical Association.
Learn about George Washington's creation of the cabinet, an advisory group for the President of the United States of America, and the cabinet's place in White House history. Featuring Dr. Lindsay Chervinsky, historian at the White House Historical Association and author of The Cabinet: George Washington and the Creation of an American Institution (available April 2020).
The White House is a stage for the peaceful transfer of power from one administration to the next. Discover how the transfer from John Adams to Thomas Jefferson set this precedent. Featuring Dr. Matthew Costello, Senior Historian at the White House Historical Association.
